The inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial launches on 15 November 2024, marking a new chapter for the UAE’s public art scene. With over 70 UAE-based and international artists showcasing diverse, site-specific installations, this event is set to captivate both residents and visitors in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the Biennial theme, ‘Public Matter’, provides a platform for exploring what constitutes “public” within the unique context of Abu Dhabi. Through this event, the DCT Abu Dhabi reinforces its commitment to community engagement and cultural inclusivity.
The Concept of “Public” in Abu Dhabi’s Unique Landscape
Abu Dhabi’s natural environment, heritage, and architecture shape its distinct sense of public spaces, a notion brought to life by the Biennial. In the UAE capital, public gatherings are influenced by environmental conditions, traditional ways of life, and urban planning. With a rapidly evolving demographic, the Biennial’s theme “Public Matter” addresses how diverse communities interact in public spaces, bridging indigenous traditions with modern urban lifestyles. It is an artistic reflection on the UAE’s communal values, which prioritize hospitality and generosity as core cultural principles.
Abu Dhabi’s public life is not only about shared spaces but also about the deeper cultural and environmental dialogue these spaces embody. Public spaces here are often organized to allow gatherings at times that best suit the region’s climate and communal customs, making public art an essential element of everyday life. The Biennial taps into these dynamics to foster a sense of ownership and pride among its residents and visitors.
Highlights of the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial: Artists, Installations, and Themes
This Biennial serves as a stage for renowned artists like Allora & Calzadilla, Farah Al Qasimi, Oscar Murillo, and Radhika Khimji. These artists will present unique site-specific installations that engage directly with the architectural and social textures of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, inviting audiences to connect with the spaces on a more intimate level.
- Urban Negotiation by Arquitectura Expandida: Arquitectura Expandida’s “Urban Negotiation” will design mobile furnishings that allow residents to create and adapt their surroundings, encouraging public participation in the city’s aesthetic and functional evolution.
- Sound Sculpture by Farah Al Qasimi: Al Qasimi’s auditory installation invites passers-by to interact with sounds that highlight the ocean’s role in the UAE’s history, evoking memories and respect for the region’s marine heritage.
- Oscar Murillo’s 80-Metre Canvas on the Corniche: Murillo’s ambitious piece on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche reflects on urban expansion and the blending of modern infrastructure with natural landscapes, creating a visual dialogue on the rapid growth of the UAE’s cities.
- Transformation of the Carpet Souq by Christopher Joshua Benton: Benton reimagines Abu Dhabi’s Carpet Souq as a community space, fostering social interaction and celebrating one of the city’s most iconic marketplaces.
Each installation is tailored to specific urban landmarks, celebrating the unique historical, social, and environmental characteristics of Abu Dhabi.
Public Art Abu Dhabi: Fostering Cultural Connections and Community Identity
The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial is more than an exhibition; it’s a movement that enhances cultural engagement and collective identity. The DCT Abu Dhabi aims to redefine public spaces as cultural meeting points that unite various communities in a shared appreciation of art and heritage. This Biennial showcases Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural tapestry, ensuring that residents and visitors alike experience art in accessible, relatable ways.
Quotes from Key Figures: Vision for the Future
DCT Abu Dhabi Chairman HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak stated, “The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial is part of our wider cultural vision, providing a unique platform for our community to both appreciate our cultural heritage and be inspired by contemporary art.” His words echo DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to supporting not only local artists but also creatives from the Global South, ensuring Abu Dhabi’s position as a global cultural hub.
Rita Aoun, Executive Director of DCT Abu Dhabi’s Culture Sector, emphasized the role of art in fostering pride and cultural connection, saying, “Our public art initiatives enhance the experience of art for everyone, strengthening our residents’ sense of pride. We want both residents and visitors to forge their connection with Abu Dhabi, inspired by the unique stories and creativity of our artists.”
Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial Locations: Exploring Art in the Heart of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain
Strategically located in downtown Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, the Biennial provides free access to transformative art encounters. By situating installations in public spaces, the event allows residents and tourists to experience art as part of their daily lives, underscoring DCT Abu Dhabi’s goal to make art inclusive and accessible.
These locations, chosen for their centrality and cultural significance, encourage engagement with the artworks in a manner that resonates with the everyday routines of Abu Dhabi’s diverse population. As a vital aspect of the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, the Biennial aligns with the city’s broader cultural strategy, making art a communal resource available to all.
Future of Public Art in Abu Dhabi: A Vision Beyond 2024
The Biennial is one of three major pillars under the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, which aims to enrich the emirate’s cultural landscape. In addition to the Biennial, the DCT Abu Dhabi also introduced the Manar Abu Dhabi light art exhibition in 2023. Held annually, Manar Abu Dhabi celebrates light-based installations, and its inaugural edition attracted over 650,000 visitors, showcasing works by 22 artists.
Manar Abu Dhabi and the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial will run in alternate years, each bringing a unique form of artistic expression to the city’s residents and visitors. Through these events, DCT Abu Dhabi reaffirms its commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering cross-cultural artistic exchanges. By supporting public art, Abu Dhabi not only preserves its cultural heritage but also adapts to the needs of a rapidly evolving, multicultural society.
Cultural Legacy and Social Impact: The Significance of the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial
Art in public spaces offers an immersive experience, creating memories and connections that resonate across generations. By making art accessible to everyone, the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial strengthens the social fabric of the UAE’s communities. This Biennial isn’t merely an art exhibition—it is a tribute to the spirit of inclusivity and unity that defines Abu Dhabi.
The DCT Abu Dhabi envisions the Biennial as a transformative force in the cultural sphere, promoting dialogue between diverse communities. As Abu Dhabi continues to grow, initiatives like the Biennial play an essential role in preserving cultural values while welcoming new perspectives. The Biennial also highlights the UAE’s dedication to fostering creative freedom and artistic innovation, providing a platform for artists worldwide to express their visions and share their stories with the public.
Conclusion
The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial stands as a testament to the UAE’s commitment to public art and cultural accessibility. Through strategic locations, innovative installations, and a rich array of performances, this Biennial celebrates the role of art in society. The UAE capital is quickly becoming a prominent player in the global art world, thanks to initiatives like the Biennial, which bridge local heritage and global creativity.
With a lineup of internationally acclaimed artists and carefully curated installations, the Biennial promises to leave an indelible mark on Abu Dhabi’s cultural landscape, uniting communities and inspiring new dialogues. The future of public art in Abu Dhabi is bright, with the Biennial setting the stage for a more connected, culturally rich society.
