Abu Dhabi has welcomed Iris Projects, a new arts institution spotlighting artists from the UAE and Gulf region. Its mission intertwines fostering emerging talent with uncovering the region’s rich, often-overlooked history.
The institution’s inaugural exhibition, In the Breath of Decay, features the debut solo showcase of Emirati artist Alyazia Al Nahyan. Running until January 20 at Iris Projects’ gallery in MiZa, the exhibition reflects the agency’s aim to celebrate innovative artists and unconventional approaches.
A Vision Rooted in Local Landscapes
Al Nahyan’s work draws deeply from the UAE’s landscapes, utilizing natural dyes from fruits, plants, and neem leaves to create evocative artworks on nontraditional fabrics. “Her paintings showcase a dynamic interplay of abstraction and movement,” noted curator Nadine Khalil.
Despite being on the cusp of graduating from Zayed University, Al Nahyan has already established a distinctive artistic vision. “I saw one of the students posting her painting on social media, and I knew this was the next artist,” recalled Iris Projects founder Maryam Al Falasi. She immediately sought out the works in person, captivated by their originality.
Al Falasi praised Khalil’s mentorship of Al Nahyan, emphasizing its transformative impact. “Having someone reflect that perspective is very important,” she said. “It makes the artist more confident in their works.”
Supporting the Next Wave of Gulf Artists
Iris Projects also represents artists like Roudhah Al Mazrouei, whose multidisciplinary work spans public installations and sculptures, and Juma Al Haj, known for large-scale paintings exploring identity through deconstructed language. Both artists, alongside Al Nahyan, were highlighted at the agency’s debut at Abu Dhabi Art.
Al Mazrouei’s recent projects include Tbaba, an installation celebrating the region’s pearl diving heritage, and Reverie, an interpretation of traditional Emirati jewelry showcased at Sikka.
A Multicultural and Historical Tapestry
Iris Projects embodies the UAE’s cosmopolitan essence, with Al Falasi determined to represent its diversity. “It’s interesting to see in art how people translate things differently,” she remarked, adding that social media has been instrumental in discovering new talent.
Beyond nurturing artists, Iris Projects delves into the UAE’s history. Al Falasi is building an archive inspired by her grandfather, Butti Bin Bishr, a figure closely linked to the nation’s founding leaders, including Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Rare photographs and documents, dating back to the 1940s, provide a window into pivotal moments, such as Sheikh Zayed’s 1968 hunting trip in Scotland.
Bridging Past and Future
Al Falasi envisions Iris Projects evolving into a multifaceted institution. “I see it growing to have a warehouse, a gallery space, and a research center for archives,” she explained, aiming to merge its dual focus on contemporary art and historical preservation.
Iris Projects’ debut signals a promising journey toward redefining the Gulf’s cultural landscape—nurturing talent while honoring the region’s storied past.
