‘Art Here’ at the Louvre Abu Dhabi

In a continued effort to support the arts scene in the region, Louvre Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with luxury Swiss watchmaking brand Richard Mille, has unveiled the third edition of the Louvre Abu Dhabi Art Here exhibition, running until February 18, 2024. This edition, titled Art Here 2023, showcases the seven sculptures and installations shortlisted for the 2023 Richard Mille Art Prize. The featured works explore the theme of ‘Transparencies,’ delving into the dynamics, materiality, and perceptual significance of transparency.

© Department of Culture and Tourisim – Photo by Seeing Things

Curated by independent art curator and advisor Maya El Khalil, Art Here 2023 highlights the works of artists from the region, including Alaa Tarabzouni from Saudi Arabia, Farah Behbhani from Kuwait, Hashel Al Lamki from the UAE, Nabla Yahya from the UAE and India, Sarah Brahim from Saudi Arabia, Sawsan Al Bahar from the UAE and Syria, and Zahrah Al Ghamdi from Saudi Arabia.

The exhibition, displayed under the dome of Louvre Abu Dhabi, explores the interplay of shadows, liquid reflections, and sunlight. Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, expresses enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasising its commitment to providing a platform for regional artists. He highlights the impressive caliber and diversity of the artworks, reflecting the immense talent in the region.

© Department of Culture and Tourisim – Photo by Seeing Things

Maya El Khalil, the curator and jury member, notes the artists’ sensitive and distinctive responses to the theme of transparency. She highlights how transparency, both visually and culturally, plays a significant role in the artists’ conceptual explorations, making evident the various structures through which we perceive the world.

Each shortlisted artist presents a unique interpretation of the theme through various mediums, including handblown glass sculptures, stained-glass panels, biomaterial made of algae, three-dimensional cartographic representations, and explorations of natural pigments. The finalists are selected by a distinguished jury, including H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Dr. Souraya Noujaim, Clare Lilley, Dr. Guilhem André, and Mohammed Kazem. The winner of the Richard Mille Art Prize, will be announced in an early 2024 ceremony.

© Department of Culture and Tourisim – Photo by Seeing Things

About Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi, a product of a unique accord between Abu Dhabi and France, designed by Jean Nouvel and inaugurated on Saadiyat Island in November 2017, is inspired by Islamic architecture. Its dome creates a “rain of light” effect, fostering a distinctive communal space. The museum champions universal human creativity, fostering cross-cultural understanding through narratives that transcend civilisations and eras. The unparalleled collection spans millennia, featuring prehistoric tools, religious texts, iconic paintings, and contemporary artworks. Collaborating with 19 French institutions, Louvre Abu Dhabi serves as a global platform for cultural innovation, connecting communities through inclusive exhibitions, programming, and a Children’s Museum.

Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi, UAE

Dates: 23 November 2023 – 18 February 2024

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