Abu Dhabi Art is set to return to Manarat Al Saadiyat from November 22 to 26. The 15th edition of this annual art fair will showcase a range of galleries, both familiar and new, that have submitted their proposals for participation. The event encompasses various sectors, including Modern & Contemporary, which welcomes galleries dedicated to artworks produced since the late 19th century and in operation for a minimum of seven years.
Another sector, Special Projects, focuses on galleries with at least three years of operation, allowing them to present exhibitions featuring one or two artists. The Emerge sector highlights galleries exhibiting works priced under $3,000. Lastly, the Focus sector comprises galleries invited to participate with artists selected by guest curators.
Last year’s Abu Dhabi Art was the largest and most diverse to date, featuring around 80 galleries from 28 countries and showcasing over 900 works by 300 artists. The forthcoming edition’s scale and participant numbers have yet to be disclosed.
Dyala Nusseibeh, director of Abu Dhabi Art, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming fair, stating that they are working with galleries and guest curators to enhance the diversity and depth of booth presentations. The event will feature contemporary artists from around the world, considering the UAE’s hosting of Cop28 this year, artists’ relationship with the environment, and providing a platform for further research on Modern Wanasa artists.
Emirati artist Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim has been chosen as this year’s visual campaign artist. Having represented the UAE at the 59th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia in 2022, Ibrahim’s works will be showcased in the global campaign for Abu Dhabi Art’s 15th year, granting him an international platform. Nusseibeh praised Ibrahim’s extraordinary connection to the UAE’s landscape and nature, which resonates both locally and globally. Ibrahim’s appointment sets the tone for the fair, which has become deeply rooted in the community.
Previous artists appointed to lead the annual visual campaign include Farah Al Qasimi (2022), Ayesha Hadhir, Rawdha Khalifa Al Ketbi, and Shaikha Fahad Al Ketbi (2021), Ebtisam Abdulaziz (2019), Monira Al Qadiri (2018), and Tarek Al-Ghoussein (2017).
Abu Dhabi Art holds significant value and visibility for local and global artists and art enthusiasts, according to Ibrahim. He commends the fair’s prominence, distinction, and growth over the years, considering it a vital platform for artistic expression. The organizers are dedicated to championing a cultural community and positioning Abu Dhabi Art as one of the most important international art exhibitions worldwide.
Further details about Abu Dhabi Art’s programming, participating galleries, curators, and artists will be announced in the months leading up to the fair.
