Iyad Qanazea from the Iyad Qanazea Gallery

How has Abu Dhabi’s unique position as a cultural crossroads influenced the direction and vision of Iyad Qanazea Gallery since its inception?

Iyad Qanazea
Iyad Qanazea

Abu Dhabi’s position as a cultural crossroads has significantly shaped the vision of Iyad Qanazea Gallery. The city’s diverse population and dynamic art scene have inspired us to create an inclusive space that represents a variety of voices from the UAE, West Asia, North Africa, and the Global South. This diversity enriches our gallery’s offerings, enabling us to cater to a wide range of tastes while positioning ourselves as a destination for high-quality, affordable art. We have embraced the city’s global character to connect local creativity with international perspectives, driving forward the cultural narrative of the region.

What draws you to artists from West Asia, North Africa, South Asia, and the Global South, and how do their diverse voices align with the gallery’s broader mandate?

Mahra AlFalahi exhibition
Mahra AlFalahi exhibition

Artists from these regions bring unique perspectives, stories of identity, migration, and cultural fusion that resonate with our gallery’s mission to offer meaningful and affordable art. These artists align with our broader mandate by enriching our portfolio with works that challenge conventional narratives and explore themes that speak to both local and global audiences. By focusing on these regions, we aim to increase our artist representation list, supporting emerging talent and bringing diverse voices into the global art conversation, which in turn appeals to our clientele seeking unique and emotionally engaging pieces.

How do you approach curating exhibitions that honour pioneering figures like Mohammed Al Mazrouei while also spotlighting emerging talent from the region?

Our approach to curating exhibitions is rooted in creating a dialogue between the old and the new. We curate exhibitions that honour iconic figures like Mohammed Al Mazrouei, whose contributions have shaped the regional art landscape, while also giving visibility to emerging talent. This allows for a multi-generational conversation within our gallery, helping us expand our artist representation list. By offering a platform for both pioneers and newcomers, we ensure that our exhibitions appeal to a broad audience, from art connoisseurs to those discovering contemporary art for the first time.

The gallery emphasises themes of peace and prosperity. How do these ideas manifest in the works of the artists you represent?

Mohamed Al Mazrouie exhibition
Mohamed Al Mazrouie exhibition

Themes of peace and prosperity are central to the works of our artists, manifesting through explorations of identity and community. Many of our artists tackle issues of peace by addressing social justice and personal struggles, while prosperity is reflected in themes of cultural richness, heritage, and creative innovation. These ideas resonate with our clientele, who value art that not only offers visual appeal but also speaks to deeper narratives. By curating such works, we offer affordable yet powerful art pieces that align with the gallery’s vision of promoting peace and growth through creativity.

In what ways do you see Iyad Qanazea Gallery contributing to the growth of Abu Dhabi’s art scene and fostering stronger connections between regional and global artists?

Fatema Al Mazrouie's exhibition
Fatema Al Mazrouie’s exhibition

Iyad Qanazea Gallery plays a pivotal role in Abu Dhabi’s art scene by serving as a hub for cross-cultural exchange. We foster connections between regional and global artists through curated exhibitions, international collaborations, and participation in global art fairs. By increasing our artist representation list, we aim to bring in diverse talents that reflect a range of artistic voices and experiences. Our positioning as a destination for high-quality yet affordable art allows us to attract a wide range of clients, from local collectors to international buyers, helping to build stronger regional and global art networks.

What role do you believe the gallery plays in supporting the long-term sustainability and recognition of artists from the Arab world and beyond?

Our gallery supports the long-term sustainability and recognition of artists by offering them platforms for exposure and career development. We help artists build sustainable careers through international exhibitions, artist commissions, and expanding their audience base. By continuously increasing our artist representation list, we provide opportunities for both emerging and established artists to gain visibility and recognition on a global scale. Our emphasis on affordable yet high-quality art ensures that our artists reach a wider audience, contributing to their sustained growth and international recognition.

Rawdha Al Ketbi
Rawdha Al Ketbi

About Iyad Qanazea Gallery

Iyad Qanazea Gallery is one of the first independent contemporary art spaces in the heart of Abu Dhabi, representing a vibrant community of artists from the UAE and the Arab world. Its mission is to showcase a diverse range of talent from West Asia, North Africa, South Asia, and the wider Global South. Situated in a city known for its cultural crossroads, the gallery reflects Abu Dhabi’s openness by featuring works from pioneers like artist and poet Mohammed Al Mazrouei, alongside emerging and established regional voices. It is dedicated to supporting artists and fostering a future of peace and cultural exchange.

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