DIFC OPEN-AIR SCULPTURE PARK

In support of Dubai’s vision to turn the walls and streets of the emirate into an open art gallery, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a leading vibrant urban destination promoting culture and community, is transforming into an open-air art gallery with the unveiling of DIFC Sculpture Park.

By Mia Fonssagrives Solow
By Mia Fonssagrives Solow

To enrich the emirate’s thriving art scene, DIFC Sculpture Park’s theme is Harmony of Different Voices: A celebration of UAE’s 50th year anniversary is aligned to supporting local and international artists who have contributed to the past, present and future of the nation.

Lightbox by Emre Namyeter
Lightbox by Emre Namyeter

Bringing together a diverse portfolio of artists showcasing 65 works of art including sculptures and paintings, the complete stretch of the park features 50 sculptures, some of which has also taken inspiration from Expo 2020 Dubai, portraying the cultural diversity and richness of UAE in the past 50 years.

Eclisse D’Acciaio by Helidon Xixhia
Eclisse D’Acciaio by Helidon Xixhia

The picturesque walk and exhibition, spanning from Gate Building to Gate Avenue, features the work of renowned international artists from different backgrounds and nationalities as they come together through the theme of harmony of different voices to communicate and express themselves through art. Works are featured from well-established galleries such as Leila Heller Gallery, Firetti Gallery and AWC Gallery, as well from independent artists.

Hagen de Merak – Aghora- MU by Mouna Rebeiz (night)
Hagen de Merak – Aghora- MU by Mouna Rebeiz (night)

Some of the artworks on display include Richard Hudson’s Unwind, where the reflective services absorb their surroundings and encouraging visitors to engage with the space and immerse themselves in the artwork; Wim Delvoye’s Le Denicheurdes Aigles, which was made specifically for the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Brussels

Le Denicheur des Aigles by Wim Delvoye
Le Denicheur des Aigles by Wim Delvoye

Azza Al Qubaisi’s Alphabet of Life, which allows the viewer to experience walking through a palm oasis representing social solidarity, growth and prosperity.

Alphabet of Life by Azza Al Qubaisi
Alphabet of Life by Azza Al Qubaisi

Mert Ege Kose’s Sculpture 1 / 2, a metal statue that helps find the depth of problems and techniques; Ahmet Gunestekin’s Gelene-ek –Horse that brings tradition into the present; and Sacha Jafri’s Lyricism Entwined.

Sculpture 1 2 by Mert Ege Kose
Sculpture 1 2 by Mert Ege Kose

All of the featured works of art have been carefully selected, and as diverse as it is, the sculptures and paintings complement each other to tell an inspiring story.

DIFC Sculpture Park is open to public until 30 June 2022.

Pen by Kemal Tufan
Pen by Kemal Tufan
CMYK by Zeinab Al Hashemi
CMYK by Zeinab Al Hashemi

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