DUBAI: A newly-launched art space is trying to break away from the norms of a traditional gallery.
701, which opened in Business Bay on April 18, not just allows visitors to create their own art pieces it also serves as a community centre.
“We want to give amateur artists, corporate professionals and foodies a place where they can mingle freely and express their creativity. We believe office goers and residents in the vicinity will benefit immensely from this concept,” says Kuwaiti Faisal Al Saleh, owner and founder at 701.
Get your art displayed
“While visitors are welcome to bring in their materials, they can also use the ones available at the gallery,” says Saleh. “The space is available for free to artists. Infact, we may also display their art work at the gallery,” he adds. The gallery also provides free parking to visitors.
This is the first venture that Saleh has been involved with in the arts sector. “I am not motivated by money with this project. I am focused on supporting the creative community,” he adds.
Located in Prime Tower, the gallery is spread across 8,650 square feet. “We also have an outdoor space where corporates can host their training sessions. There is a pool that is open to all our visitors and provides a great view of Burj Khalifa,” he adds.
According to him the gallery can easily house about 60 people. “We are open every day from 7.01am to 7.01 pm,” he says.
The gallery displays works of six artists from around the world. Lebanese artist Batoul Yaghi Absi, British artist Dozi Dreams, Egyptian Mennah Hafez, Swiss Just One, Filipino Cholo Juan and French Waxfeller are the gallery’s resident artists. “Our picturesque art gallery has been designed by these people,” adds Saleh.
For more information visit www.facebook.com/701Dubai/
