Residents make a strong case for more public art

Dubai The appeal of public art was shared by residents and organisers during the unveiling of an exhibition on Thursday titled ‘Outdoor Art Project 2012' at Bay Avenue, Business Bay where larger-than-life artworks lined the promenade.

The partnership between Dubai Culture and Dubai Properties Group (DPG) brought together 12 Emirati and UAE artists who were commissioned to produce art under the theme, ‘This is Dubai, the city that I lived'.

Through various media from installation to painting and photography, the artists expressed different facets of the emirate, taking art outside the concept of a gallery and making it accessible to the public.

Gulf News spoke to a few artists and residents. Of the value of public art, Ferdinando Fiore from the Italian Trade Commission in Dubai, said, "It is great that the common man can enjoy art, and doesn't need to visit a gallery. The architecture of this city will only be enhanced by such works."

No time to visit gallery

Louise Fitzpatrick, an Irish teacher in Dubai, said she takes walks along the promenade almost every day. "It is refreshing now. Though I have an avid interest in art, I never get the time or energy to visit a gallery. The undermining theme [in the artworks] is Dubai and there are cultural aspects you learn through these."

The art hoardings were still work-in-progress a few weeks ago, and drew the attention of Ayah Elebshihi, 11, her sister, Shahd, 8, and friend Dana Ghalayini, 10. They said, "There was a lady on a ladder — painting. We had so much fun watching her. We live in this complex, and it is so beautiful now."

Artist Areej Al Hammadi termed public art as visual relief. "Construction all around can be an eyesore. Further, public art draws everyone, not just art critiques and art connoisseurs."

Her views were similar to those of artist Elise Vazelakis who used her art to connect to the public. "Art is joyful. When a viewer walks past it, he can interpret any way he wants."

Interaction

Dubai Culture has been supporting such collaborations in line with its aim to strengthen artistic community engagement.

Khalil Abdul Wahid, manager of visual arts at Dubai Culture, told Gulf News, "We want the public to interact with art. The unique aspect is that residents also got the chance to see artists working on their pieces. It is also a way for artists to gain exposure."

Fast facts

What: Outdoor Art Project 2012

Where: Bay Avenue at Business Bay

When: Till December 2012

Featured artists: Amal Al Beiti, Areej Al Hammadi, Mohammad Al Marzouqi, FN Designs, Darwin Guevarra, Hadier Shehabi, Lucas Surtie, Sandra Surtie, Michal Teague, Farah Nasri, Flordeliza Pesigan and Elise Vazelakis.