Dubai: Art can build what politics ruins, said many participants at the recently-concluded Art Dubai. The event has helped forge bonds and build friendships, they say.
"Apart from the magnificent artworks, what really caught my attention is the friendly interaction between people from different cultural backgrounds, the communication and the positive attitude they spontaneously showed. I believe that art can bring people together effortlessly," Iranian-American Roberta Mehdi, 39, who was visiting Art Dubai for the third time, told Gulf News.
Italian art collector Anna-Maria Bersani said: "My family has collected contemporary art for 45 years and I came to Art Dubai to personally view the pieces and think about what to collect and invest in the international market. Art Dubai is the foundation of the future of art in Dubai and I believe that it's working really well, considering that art in Dubai is still in its infancy and needs more hard work to be at par with international levels. But I see it's moving forward steadily and the expected outcome seems very promising."
Informative
Australian art consultant Anita Archer said: "This is my fourth visit to Art Dubai, I'm here on behalf of my clients who collect art in Australia. I came over to personally see and professionally evaluate the needed artworks." Regarding the prices, she said: "The prices are very fair indeed. In Australia, we have a very strong market for art and prices are really high." Archer has specialised in Asian and Middle Eastern art.
French psychologist Veronique Cugnet-Richard was seen touring the galleries with her little boys. "What I like about Art Dubai is the beautiful blend of all the participants. Art indeed can build what politics ruins. Art can be used as therapy for those who suffer from psychological problems," she said.
Indian artist Ubik, 25, who showcases at the Dubai-based Traffic Gallery, said: "This year, Art Dubai has organised its activities more precisely than the previous edition. For example, the venues of the Global Art Forums are now close to the main interaction of the galleries. And I appreciate the informative talks at the different sessions of the forums. I really enjoyed it."
American James Clar, 32, another artist at Traffic Gallery, added: "Art Dubai is obviously evolving remarkably, and we've seen more international galleries take part. And what I admire most about Art Dubai is the concept of bringing the entire world under its cultural umbrella, and that enabled me to build relationships with others."
The fifth edition of Art Dubai hosted a number of newcomers.
Future plans
Italian Massima Barone was visiting Art Dubai for the first time because she is passionate about art. "I like to view artworks and enhance my knowledge about art in general. And what I like most is the water colour paintings."
Swiss artist Eliza Thoenen visited Art Dubai to find a suitable gallery for her work because she is determined to take part next year. "By all means, I'd love to be a member of such an outstanding art event." American Todd Hosfelt, who represents Hosfelt Gallery, said: "This is our first participation at Art Dubai and I think it's an amazing opportunity to show our artworks to the Middle East through Dubai."
