The 16th edition of Abu Dhabi Art is scheduled from November 20 to 24 at Manarat Al Saadiyat, uniting over 100 local and international galleries to present modern and contemporary art. This year, the event introduces new focus sections and programs, highlighting modern regional artists, historical objects, and emerging talents. The fair also stresses community and student engagement, featuring works by renowned artists such as Mohammed Kazem and Mandy El-Sayegh.
Background and Key Highlights
Abu Dhabi Art 2024, organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, will introduce three new Focus sections: ‘Something Bold, Something New’, ‘The Collector’s Salon’, and ‘Silk Road: Drifting Identities’. The ‘Emerge’ section will offer artworks priced under 3,000 USD to attract new collectors, while the ‘Bidaya’ section will showcase emerging galleries. The Beyond Emerging Artists program, curated by Lorenzo Fiaschi, will commission works from UAE-based artists such as Fatma Al Ali, Dina Nazmi Khorchid, and Simrin Mehra Agarwal.
New Programs and Exhibitions
The fair includes several innovative programs, such as the Gateway exhibition curated by Odessa Warren and Carine Harmand, exploring connections between the Arab world and Latin America. The Art + Tech program, led by Afra Al Suwaidi and Marina Fedorova, will spotlight student projects. Additionally, the Conversations Program, supported by the Farjam Foundation, will promote research and discussions in the art field, fostering critical engagement with contemporary and historical art themes.
Community and Student Engagement
The event emphasizes community and student engagement. The House of Artisans will present the ‘Community Partners’ exhibition under the theme ‘Crafts as a Language’. The Pavilion Prize winners, Omar Darwish, Abdulla Abbas, and Salama Alhammadi, will see their designs brought to life during the fair. Student projects will also be highlighted through the Art + Tech program, demonstrating the fair’s strong commitment to nurturing young talent.
Abu Dhabi Art 2024 promises to be a lively and inclusive event, celebrating the diversity of modern and contemporary art. With its innovative sections, engaging programs, and strong community focus, it is an unmissable event for art enthusiasts and collectors alike.
