Abu Dhabi: Four artists, representing distinctive styles, cultures and emirates, are showcasing their works at the ‘Crossroads — Art on Tracks' exhibition at the Yas Hotel in Abu Dhabi.
The exhibition, organised by Dubai-based Swiss Art Gate UAE, is being held under the patronage of Mohammad Ahmad Bin Sulayem, president of ATC-UAE (Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE), vice-president of FIA-Sport, and Wolfgang-Amadeus Bruelhart, ambassador of Switzerland to the UAE.
The opening night also saw Emirati artist Ilmiyah of Desert Heat entertain visitors with a performance from the group's latest album.
"Since the Yas Hotel opened, I was always interested in doing something that highlights its unique architecture…I contacted the artists and proposed to do an exhibition around the space presented in the hotel and they agreed," Kurt Blum, general manager, Swiss Art Gate, said.
"The theme was inspired partially by the hotel and the Yas Marina Circuit as well as the fact that the artists all come from different ‘roads'," he added.
Over 30 pieces, ranging from paintings to sculptures to installations, are being exhibited in different locations around the hotel as part of the show. They include works from Emirati artists Dr. Najat Makki and Khalid Juma Ahli, and Swiss expatriate Andre C. Meyerhans, who are based in Dubai, as well as Ras Al Khaimah-based Welsh expatriate Rebecca Rendell.
"When Kurt approached me to be a part of the exhibition, I didn't hesitate. Art is a wonderful way to express and reflect anything ranging from your thoughts to your surrounding environment," Dr. Makki, said. "Now with Abu Dhabi aiming to be the Capital of Culture, such events are a great way to show how much talent is present in the country, from both Emiratis and expatriates," she added.
Among the various eye-catching pieces are Andre's eight-seat open air majlis, which measures 2.9 m x 6.8 m x 4.3 m (length x width x height). Created in 2006, it is assembled from 300 pieces of steel and weighs in at 1.5 tonnes. It is located at the Ateyeb restaurant terrace.
"I wanted to create something that would also be functional, which is where the idea for a majlis came in. It took three months to design and build but I'm very pleased with the way it turned out. I'm pleased to be exhibiting it here…it's interesting seeing all the different works being displayed at the hotel…their contrasting styles and techniques allow you to see each artwork with different eyes," the architect, who works in Abu Dhabi, said.
At a glance
- What: Crossroads - Art On Track
- When: The exhibition will run until April 23, 2011
- Where: The Yas Hotel
All the works are available for purchase
