Dubai is renowned for its iconic skyline, luxury shopping, and cultural diversity. Yet, beneath the surface lies a burgeoning art scene that’s captivating the world’s attention. We love working with the local community of artists in the UAE as there really is something for everyone. Below, we take a deep dive into Dubai’s thriving art landscape, from its world-class galleries and avant-garde installations to the fusion of traditional and contemporary influences that make it a global cultural hub. Check out the artists in the UAE we love too! A fusion of culture and innovation Dubai’s art scene is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The city’s rich cultural heritage, deeply rooted in Arabian traditions, seamlessly intertwines with cutting-edge contemporary creations. This harmonious fusion creates an atmosphere where both local and international artists can thrive.
Iconic Art Districts:
Neighborhoods like Alserkal Avenue and Dubai Design District (d3) are at the forefront of Dubai’s art movement. These districts host galleries, workshops, studios, and cultural events, offering a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage with the community. Our personal favourite is the Leila Heller Gallery in Al Serkal: http://www.leilahellergallery.com
Global Art Fairs:
Dubai hosts renowned art fairs like Art Dubai and World Art Dubai, attracting artists, collectors, and enthusiasts from around the world. These events provide a platform for artists to display their works and for art aficionados to discover diverse pieces. Check out the personal art tours which take place around these fairs – there’s a host of different options for every taste!
Public Art Installations:
Dubai’s commitment to integrating art into public spaces is evident through its captivating installations. The city’s innovative architecture becomes a canvas for creativity, creating a unique visual experience for both residents and visitors. Check out the DIFC Sculpture Park until the end of September.
Celebrating diversity and identity
Dubai’s cosmopolitan nature is mirrored in its art scene, which celebrates the diverse backgrounds and influences of its artists. From Emirati artists preserving their heritage to international creatives contributing their unique perspectives, Dubai’s art landscape is a tapestry of cultures.
Emirati expression:
Local artists are weaving narratives of their culture through their artwork, blending tradition with contemporary techniques. Calligraphy, a revered art form, takes on new life as artists fuse it with modern mediums.
Cross-cultural collaborations:
Dubai’s open-minded approach encourages collaborations between local and international artists, fostering a creative exchange that enriches the city’s artistic offerings.
Experiential art:
Interactive and experiential art installations invite viewers to engage with the artwork on a personal level. These installations redefine the boundaries of art and invite visitors to become part of the creative process. Artists in the UAE we love We source artwork for our clients from a range of sources including galleries and artists directly.
Artists we love include:
Pop and Toast – a Northern Irish artist living in Dubai. Artist, Anna McKeown, has been highlighted in various top magazines such as British Vogue and offers a range of bespoke, contemporary pieces from fashion to champagne. https://popandtoastcollection.com/ Leila Pazooki – Berlin-based renowned Iranian visual artist. While not an artist in the UAE per se, her solo show, Unyielding Essences: “A Feminine Odyssey Through Matter and Soul”, opens on 21st September 2023 at Leila Heller Gallery. The Sassy Crayon – an artist with a flair for the abstract and a love for all things colourful. Her work is all about capturing emotion and expressing it in a way that’s both bold and beautiful. https://www.thesassycrayon.com/ Abdulla Lutfi – known for his black and white pop-art drawings, Emirati Abdulla Lutfi is one of the UAE’s most well known artists – even for those who may not recognise the name. Lutfi’s unique style of drawing is in permanent place at DXB Terminal 3 as part of diorama illustrating daily life at the bustling airport, and is viewed by thousands of passengers each day. https://abdullalutfi.com/ Saman Sadlik – known for her numerous collaborations with several luxury brands such as Bvlgari, Dior, Aqua Di Parma and many more. Saman has created stunning fashion and beauty-related illustrations over the years and is part of Dubai’s grown fashion scene, as her sketches have earned her several accolades in the industry. Instagram
