The weather is just perfect for a stroll through the city to take note of the latest art installations on display
Pillar of Courage at the DIFC
Grab your shoes and a hoodie, if you must, and make these stops to familiarize yourself with the artsy happenings in your neighborhood.
A party piece
The Malaysia Pavilion, in collaboration with Emirati artist Shatha Essa Al Mulla, showcased the ongoing Expo 2020 with an artwork honoring the UAE’s Golden Jubilee. Al Mulla worked closely with Malaysian artists, under the guidance of the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC), to build 50 cones representing 50 sand dunes in the United Arab Emirates. “The inspiration behind the installation comes from the rich heritage of Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates. The Golden Jubilee of the United Arab Emirates is an opportunity for everyone to appreciate where the United Arab Emirates began and where it is. find now. With this in mind, we added a thin gold line on each cone to mimic that strand of gold – the Golden Jubilee,” Mulla said. Representing a movement to incorporate traditional practices into contemporary art , the piece reflects the aims of Expo 2020 Dubai’s Hammour House project – a celebration of local knowledge that invites visitors to rediscover traditional tactile methods of artistic creation, such as knitting, quilting and weaving.
At: Malaysia Pavilion, Expo 2020
Tribute to the UAE
The Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) has expanded its public artwork with two new sculptures that pay homage to the United Arab Emirates. The unveiling comes at a time when the country is focusing on boosting the cultural and creative sectors to support the economy and reflect the inclusive participation of young people and global players. Renowned artist Helidon Xhixha’s Pillar of Fortitude, alluding to the number 1, represents the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates. The work was also the winner of the London Design Biennale Public Medal 2016 (best installation). Next, contemporary artist Mia Fonssagrives Solow, known for her refined and whimsical aesthetic in figurative and abstract forms, presents four works of art in red (bone shape), green (apple shape), white (apple shape). sale) and black (Eggplomb), representing the colors of the UAE flag. Using enamel over fiberglass, the uniquely displayed pieces are strategically placed in front of the Gate Building’s flags.
At: Gate District 6 (Podium Level), Dubai International Financial Center
Meet the artist in residence
ME Dubai’s creative collaboration with contemporary artist James Goldcrown will see one of the world’s most innovative creative talents, who has built a cult following for his #LOVEWALL murals, take up a pop-up studio in the hotel. The partnership will also include James taking over the hotel’s luxurious suite, resulting in a “Love Suite” just in time for Valentine’s Day. Throughout her residency, visitors to the hotel will be able to witness her extraordinary creative skills and an exhibition of her most iconic works in the worlds of art, fashion and social media. Goldcrown shared, “I am thrilled to bring my Bleeding Hearts and #LOVEWALL designs to Dubai and the Middle East for the first time. I hope to learn and get to know the region, the people and the communities that have contributed to its creative scene and be taught by them.
To: ME Dubai, Opus