Art Dubai: In and Around the City
What is happening during Art Dubai in and around the city that we can talk about?
This year we are presenting our most ambitious programme to date with a record number of presentations and new elements – it is challenging but exciting! We have over 600 artists and 130 galleries from more than 40 countries, representing the breadth and quality of artistic practice today.
We pride ourselves on being a truly global fair, and the leading global platform for art and artists from the Middle East and Global South. It promises to be a fantastic event – we can’t wait. We have an eclectic mix of artists and galleries, so there is something for everyone and for all ages.
Mirroring the economic rise of the region in recent years, today we have a thriving art scene – and it is not just homegrown. We have seen a large number of collectors from all over the world base themselves in Dubai and international galleries opening spaces in the Emirates – and we are delighted that some will have exhibitions at this year’s fair.
For example, the commercial gallery Perrotin, founded by Emmanuel Perrotin, opened its first space in the Middle East in Dubai in November 2022 will have space, as does Galleria Continua, a leading international contemporary art gallery, founded in San Gimignano, will feature for the first time.
But besides the 120+ participants we have exhibiting at the fair itself, there is plenty to whet the appetite of art lovers in and around Dubai.
- The Sharjah Biennale is one of the top art events in the world – this time they have brought together over 150 artists and collectives from more than 70 countries for the 15th edition and 30th anniversary of the Sharjah Biennial. The show, which is on until 11 June, is curated by Hoor Al Qasimi, Sharjah Biennial 15: Thinking Historically in the Present reflects the late Okwui Enwezor’s visionary work, which transformed contemporary art and has influenced the evolution of institutions and biennials around the world.
- One of the first contemporary arts institutions in Dubai, Jameel Arts Centre presents curated solo and group exhibitions, drawn from the Jameel Art Collection and regional and international collaborations. From next month, they will be exhibiting ‘They will end up in ravines’ by Sara Sadik, who uses video games, science fiction, everyday life and French rap music to write coming-of-age stories. Located at the Jaddaf Waterfront it’s a fantastic place to explore.
- Alserkal Avenue, which was formed from warehouses converted into galleries is certainly always worth a visit and well-known amongst the inhabits of Dubai. It is home to a community of over 70 contemporary art galleries and visual and performing arts organisations, and includes its flagship gallery Concrete, the imposing OMA-designed exhibition and performance space, which is currently showcasing a solo presentation of work by artist Rana Begum titled Dappled Light.
- Over in Abu Dhabi is 421, an independent platform for emerging artists and creative practitioners in the UAE and across the region. The Winter 2023 Program: RE/COLLECT THIS includes exhibitions. workshops, talks, and special events that interrogate contemporary modes of memory-making and how they shape our understanding of the past, present, and future.
Dubai is now a global hub for art about exploration, discovery and innovation. There are so many artists across all genres there are galleries for everyone – within the fair and around the city.