16th Abu Dhabi Art to Be Held Under Patronage of Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the 16th edition of Abu Dhabi Art is set to take place from November 20 to 24 at Manarat Al Saadiyat. Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), this year's event will highlight the contributions of Emirati artist Mohammed Kazem as the Visual Campaign Artist, recognizing his significant influence on the UAE’s contemporary art landscape.

This year's Abu Dhabi Art promises to be a vibrant celebration of artistic expression, featuring over 100 local and international galleries. Attendees can expect an enriching cultural experience with new sections dedicated to modern regional artists, showcasing works from Central Asia and the Caucasus, aimed at fostering cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation. Additionally, the fair will present unique collections of historical artifacts and collectibles, catering to art aficionados and collectors from around the globe.

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The Abu Dhabi Art fair serves as a vital platform for the UAE's burgeoning art market, which is increasingly interconnected with cultural movements throughout the Global South. This annual fair is the highlight of Abu Dhabi Art's year-long programming, which includes artist residencies, commissions, exhibitions, and educational outreach initiatives. Each year, the selected Visual Campaign Artist plays a crucial role in shaping the fair's visual identity, and Kazem's appointment reflects his status as a pioneering figure in the UAE’s art community, having supported and contributed to its growth for over two decades.

His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized the importance of the arts in Emirati culture. He remarked, “Abu Dhabi Art plays a vital role in showcasing our cultural identity to the world. Events like this not only foster creativity and expression but also nurture artistic talent at every level, from grassroots initiatives to international prominence. Mohammed Kazem has been an essential figure in the UAE’s art scene, and we are thrilled that he has accepted the role of Visual Campaign Artist for this year’s event.”

Kazem’s artistic practice, as described by Gallery Isabelle Van Den Eynde, spans video, photography, and performance, exploring new ways to perceive his environment and experiences. His background as a musician informs his work, allowing him to engage with transient phenomena like sound and light, rendering them into tangible forms.

Expressing his excitement, Mohammed Kazem stated, “I’m honored to have been chosen to create the visual campaign for this edition of Abu Dhabi Art. I look forward to meeting artists from around the world at the fair, discovering new artworks and techniques, and participating in the related events, including new commissions from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.”

With its diverse offerings and commitment to fostering a vibrant artistic community, the 16th Abu Dhabi Art is poised to be a landmark event in the UAE's cultural calendar, celebrating creativity and innovation on a global scale.