#Culture #Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #Public Art

Experience the First Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial

The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial has officially launched, marking a significant milestone for the Emirate’s cultural landscape. Spearheaded by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), this innovative initiative transforms Abu Dhabi and Al Ain into dynamic open-air galleries, showcasing curated installations and performances until April 30, 2025.

Connecting Communities Through Art

This biennial event explores the essence of ‘publicness’ within the context of Abu Dhabi, emphasizing how art can forge connections among diverse communities. Strategically located installations in bustling urban centers invite both residents and visitors to immerse themselves in artistic experiences that reflect on themes of community, environment, and identity.

With contributions from over 70 artists globally, the biennial features site-specific exhibits and performances that resonate with local communities. Some standout projects include:

• - *Farah Al Qasimi’s Homesickness: This auditory sculpture envelops listeners in the sounds of the sea, symbolizing its cultural and ecological significance in the region.
• - Seema Nusrat’s Floating Fragments: This piece depicts a terracotta-roofed house submerged by a fictional flood, commenting on urban life and the heightened risks of climate change-induced flooding.
• - Christopher Benton’s Where Lies My Carpet Is Thy Home: A transformation of the traditional carpet market into an engaging community space that encourages interaction and connection.
• - Afra Al Dhaheri’s D-constructing Collective Exhaustion: An immersive installation featuring wooden structures, tangled ropes, light, and sound, prompting reflection on time, presence, and consciousness.
• - Wael Al Awar’s Barzakh***: This installation examines boundaries and liminal spaces, contemplating how materials and processes could shape future architectural landscapes.

Explore Artistic Routes

Specially designed routes for the biennial can be explored on foot or by car, leading audiences to discover both famous landmarks and hidden gems through an artistic lens. As Abu Dhabi continues to grow, the warmth and hospitality of its people remain at its core, a sentiment celebrated throughout the biennial.

Starting in January 2025, a second wave of installations and activities will further enrich the event, building on the engagement of the communities involved.

The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial presents a unique opportunity for attendees to dive deep into the cultural tapestry of the city while engaging actively with its vibrant community. This makes it an essential destination for tourists visiting Abu Dhabi from November to April 2025. For more details about the artists, programming, and locations, visit paad.ae/biennial.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi

The DCT is committed to sustainable growth in the cultural and tourism sectors of Abu Dhabi, facilitating economic progress and furthering the Emirate's global objectives. Through partnerships with organizations that position the Emirate as a premier international travel destination, the DCT strives to unify efforts and investments while promoting innovative solutions and strategies that support the local arts scene.

About Public Art in Abu Dhabi

As part of DCT Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to commissioning public art within the Emirate, Public Art Abu Dhabi plays a significant role in enhancing community engagement. This initiative, which invests over $35 million annually, is vital in bolstering the cultural infrastructure and overall quality of life for residents of the UAE capital.

Discover more about Abu Dhabi’s cultural initiatives and tourism potential at dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae.