Dubai: Some of the world’s most renowned 3D artists are set to push the boundaries of street art with their exclusive creations at the second annual Dubai Canvas Festival taking place from March 1 to 14.
Organised by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), in cooperation with Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), the festival will feature over 60 works of well-known international, regional and local artists.
Among those exhibiting are three exciting European artists famous for their ground-breaking 3D street art — Leon Keer, Sergio Odeith and Fanakapan.
Dutch artist Keer is widely recognised as a leading pioneer and expert in anamorphic street art, an art form that features deformed images that appear regular and in proportion when viewed from certain points. One of the works he will be showcasing at Dubai Canvas will be the latest in his series featuring ‘gummy bears’. The gummy bears in his pieces, which though deformed when viewed from the ground, have a stunningly natural presence when seen from a height.
Keer’s works reflect themes ranging from environmental issues to the challenges facing modern society. He works with a mixture of techniques, and uses a rich variety of materials, ranging from professional acrylic paints to adhesives, solvents, primers and tar.
Ayesha Bin Kalli, member of the organising committee of Dubai Canvas, said: “The second edition of Dubai Canvas Festival brings a larger selection of unique artists to showcase their works to a Dubai audience.”
This year’s festival, she said, will provide an even greater opportunity for the artists to interact with the public in Dubai through their incredible art.
“Our objective is to turn the Jumeirah Beach Residence’s pavements, walkways and boulevards into large canvases that create opportunities for public interaction and engagement. Each artist has been carefully chosen to create a memorable experience of public art for the audience. We are confident that this year’s Dubai Canvas Festival will be another wonderful celebration of art,” she noted.
The works of these artists, along with that of 30 others from 14 countries, will be exhibited in an area stretching over two kilometres within Jumeirah Beach Residence in a way that encourages active public participation, engagement and interaction.
In addition to the artworks, the festival will also feature many events on the sidelines including custom-designed workshops and activities for different ages.
