ATHR Gallery in Jeddah has taken a bold step into the future of contemporary art by unveiling three groundbreaking exhibitions that explore the intersection of art and technology. These exhibitions, titled “In/Visible: Objects in the Mirror,” “An Untitled” by Rami Farook, and the technologically innovative “A Way with Light,” showcase the transformative power of technology in the world of art.
The exhibitions, which opened with a reception on Wednesday, will be on display until December 27, 2023. Each offers a unique perspective on how contemporary artists are pushing the boundaries of conventional artistic practices.
“In/Visible: Objects in the Mirror” is the main attraction in the gallery’s lower level. This group show features artists who delve into the significance of objects, both ordinary and abstract, in our daily lives. The featured artists include Sarah Abu Abdullah, Zahrah Al-Ghamdi, Dana Awartani, Ayman Yossri Daydban, Sultan bin Fahad, and Muhannad Shono. Their works challenge viewers to contemplate the hidden meanings and symbolism behind everyday objects.
On the upper level of the gallery, “A Way with Light” beckons visitors to explore the limitless possibilities that technology offers art. The exhibition includes an array of digital art installations and a captivating collection of non-fungible token (NFT) artworks curated from Saudi and international artists. These artists employ groundbreaking digital techniques, ranging from coding and programming to advanced machine learning and artificial intelligence, to create innovative artworks.
This remarkable collection, a collaboration between ATHR Gallery and AKTHR, the gallery’s experimental art mediums division, comprises over 2,000 pieces. These works of art underscore the role of innovation in shaping societies and cultures.
Notably, three Saudi artists—Ayman Yossri Daydban, Daniah Al-Saleh, and Ahaad Alamoudi—are featured in the exhibition. They seamlessly integrate digital modalities into their existing artistic practices, providing a local perspective on the global phenomenon of digital art.
The exhibition also highlights the contributions of internationally acclaimed artists such as Andres Reisinger, teamLab, Jonas Lund, Random International, Refik Anadol, and Quayola, all of whom have embraced the digital realm. Their work redefines the roles of artists, viewers, and collectors in the digital age.
Pharah Al-Ghalib, the exhibition manager, commented on the displays, stating, “In the ever-changing landscape of contemporary art, digital art and NFTs have established a stronghold on the global art market through innovative use of technology. Our goal is to introduce the national audience to novel modes of art-making and inspire a new generation of artists and creatives.”
One of the exhibition’s highlights is “Take Over series, 2023” by Andres Reisinger, an Argentine artist who envisions a future where the digital and physical realms seamlessly interact.
“An Untitled” is the first solo show in Jeddah for Emirati artist, curator, and producer Rami Farook. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Farook expressed his dedication to educating, informing, and entertaining through his work. He sees this exhibition as an opportunity to share his experiments with a broader audience and foster a sense of collective artistic exploration.
ATHR Gallery’s exhibitions at the crossroads of art and technology represent a bold step forward in the ever-evolving world of contemporary art, inviting viewers to engage with art in new and exciting ways.
