Abu Dhabi residents, brace yourselves for a dazzling experience as the emirate hosts its first-ever Manar Abu Dhabi light art exhibition. This public exhibit aims to transform the emirate with captivating light artworks strategically placed across various islands, mangroves, and natural vistas of the capital. The inaugural edition is a significant component of the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi's (DCT Abu Dhabi) Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative.
Themed 'Grounding Light', the exhibition centres around the concept of grounding and self-enlightenment, emphasising the belief that light reflects our inner selves, body, mind, nature, and spirit.
Reem Fadda and Alia Zaal Lootah have curated a citywide exhibition showcasing artworks from over 20 local, regional, and international artists. Representing 35 diverse countries such as Argentina, Germany, France, India, Japan, Mexico, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Tunisia, UAE, UK, and USA, the exhibition brings together a rich tapestry of artistic perspectives.
The art installations will be showcased as part of Manar Abu Dhabi until Tuesday, 30 January 2024.
The art installations will be showcased at various significant locations across Abu Dhabi, spanning Lulu, Saadiyat, Jubail, Al Samaliyah, and Fahid islands, as well as coastal areas like Corniche Road and the Eastern Mangroves. For details about the locations, here's everything you need to know.
Fahid Island Art Exhibit
On Fahid Island, the American artist Jim Denevan has crafted 'Self Similar', a land art installation brightened by 432 solar lanterns.
Opening time is 5.30pm to 11.30pm.
Lulu Island Art Exhibit
Lulu Island becomes the canvas for Mexican-Canadian artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, who presents 'Translation Island', an interactive exploration featuring 10 expansive audiovisual multimedia artworks.
Emirati poet and artist Nujoom Al Ghanem pays homage to Abu Dhabi's seafaring heritage on Lulu Island with a significant installation featuring dhow boats.
Opening time is 5.30pm to 11.30pm.
Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach Exhibit
At Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach, the German artist Carsten Höller introduces 'Abu Dhabi Dots', a playful installation encouraging visitors to interact with light and alter its properties. Simultaneously, Indian artist Shilpa Gupta contemplates the human capacity for change in artwork presented in Arabic, English, and Urdu.
The 4-metre-tall sculpture 'Coral Alchemy (Acropora Grove)' by London-based artist Shezad Dawood, situated on Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach, serves as a reminder of environmental issues, shedding light on the endangered Acropora coral species.
Using two LED screens as her canvas, Palestinian-born visual artist Samia Halaby transforms Corniche Beach, blending painting with kinetic technology. This innovative approach gives abstract concepts a tangible form, reflecting themes of growth and development.
Opening time is 5.30pm to 1am.
Eastern Mangroves Exhibit
Abu Dhabi-based artists Ayesha Hadhir, Rawdha Al Ketbi, and Shaikha Al Ketbi delve into the emirate's traditions and cultural practices through a series of artworks, offering a whimsical journey through the Eastern Mangroves.
Opening time is 5.30pm to 11.30pm.
Saadiyat Island Exhibit
Groupe F's drone and light painting displays work their magic, illuminating the night sky and providing a sneak peek into the future architectural landmarks of Saadiyat Island. Guided by the power of light, Latifa Saeed and Nadia Kaabi-Linke conceptualise their architecture-focused artworks as instruments or lenses for the intangible medium, light, which renders the world visible without itself being seen.
Opening time is 6pm until midnight.
And there's more to come! A second set of artworks is set to be revealed on Al Samaliyah Island on 20 December and will be on display until 30 January 2024. Keep an eye out for all the upcoming updates!
To know about the timings and routes, Abu Dhabi Department of Culture's website.