Bringing the Past and Present Together Through Art

The Resonance installation, created by graphic designer Maryam Namvar and architect Neda Salmanpour, is an immersive and interactive art piece that invites visitors into a sensory conversation with the past and present of Al Shindagha. Curated by Munira Al Sayegh, the piece comprises three delicately suspended metal panels that move with the wind, reflect shifting light, and echo the rhythms of the creek. The installation draws inspiration from the constant movement of water, trade, architecture, languages, and communities that have long shaped life in this area. The piece’s dynamic nature highlights the cultural evolution of Al Shindagha, incorporating elements of the community’s history, while also adding a contemporary touch.

Promoting Public Art for Community Engagement

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, stressed that public art plays an essential role in the emirate’s cultural ecosystem. He emphasized that the Dubai Public Art Strategy is a platform for artists to draw from Dubai’s rich cultural heritage and express their creative visions. “Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood stands as a witness to the evolution of Dubai into a global city,” said Dr. Bin Kharbash, highlighting the importance of the site in Dubai’s collective memory.

Maryam Namvar and Neda Salmanpour, the artists behind the installation, said, “Al Shindagha serves as a cultural and historical touchstone, and, with our artwork Resonance, we wanted to capture the emotion of being there. We aim to contribute to the ever-evolving culture and context of the city by creating a piece that will evoke thought, emotion, and conversation.”

Continuing Dubai’s Public Art Journey

Resonance is the first in a series of three Dubai Public Art projects, which will continue to bring thought-provoking art into public spaces like the Shindagha Historic District, Al Quoz Creative Zone, and Hatta. This initiative reflects Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and Alserkal Arts Foundation’s ongoing commitment to nurturing artistic excellence among UAE-based artists, fostering deeper connections between the city’s creative community and its people.

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Arab News had the opportunity to speak with teamLab Borderless founder, Toshiyuki Inoko, ahead of the grand opening. Inoko shared his aspirations for the new space and the significance of its location.

The Jeddah Museum will showcase over 80 interrelated artworks designed to influence and interact with others. “Each one of (the) artworks are not independently displayed but they are interrelated and they influence each other … our artwork is fluid and has no borders, hence the name borderless,” Inoko explained.

Among the featured installations is “Flutter of Butterflies Beyond Borders in Layered Ultrasubjective Space-1,” an immersive piece that epitomizes the museum’s ethos of boundless creativity.

The Jeddah venue will be divided into four main sections: Athletics Forest, Future Park, Forest of Lamps, and EN TEA HOUSE. These sections are designed to offer visitors an ever-changing experience, blending physical interaction with digital artistry.

“Once you enter our doors, you walk through a world that is changing endlessly. As you explore further, you enjoy the process of transformation through the artwork,” Inoko said.

Inoko emphasized the importance of Jeddah’s rich historical context in choosing it as the site for the museum. “Jeddah is strongly historical and it is rare to see and touch traces of history and Jeddah is one of those rare places where this happens. We think it’s going to be very meaningful for people to create a modern experience in such a strong historical context. We hope to capture the journey between the past and the future,” he noted.

The immersive nature of teamLab Borderless is designed to engage visitors in a way that traditional art galleries do not. Inoko hopes that this interaction will challenge conventional notions of beauty and encourage a new perspective on the world.

“At our museum, you as a visitor have the power to influence the art with your physical body … we are hoping to challenge the notion of beauty by showing how it can be everchanging and we hope it can also influence the way people look at the world,” he added.

With its innovative approach and historical setting, teamLab Borderless in Jeddah is set to offer a groundbreaking experience that bridges the past and future. As the opening day approaches, the anticipation for this unique museum continues to build.

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Purchased in 1994, the once “ugly” brown house has undergone a transformative journey, thanks to the artistic duo’s unwavering dedication. Every nook and cranny of the home is adorned with intricate mosaics, be it shimmering tile-covered bathtubs, whimsical steel dragons encircling the fences, or the glint of glass mugs and bottle caps repurposed into mesmerizing art pieces.

The house’s allure has transcended its physical boundaries, gaining viral fame on social media platforms. For a nominal fee of $20, intrigued tourists and art aficionados alike can wander through this kaleidoscopic wonderland on Saturday afternoons.

Chen Lou, an art enthusiast from southeast China, drew parallels between the Mosaic Tile House and the masterpieces of renowned artist Gaudi in Barcelona. Such comparisons highlight the global resonance and admiration Pann and Duran’s creation has garnered.

The genesis of this artistic haven traces back to 1992 when serendipity played its part. A chance encounter over a paint counter at a local art supply store sparked an instant connection between Pann and Duran. This spontaneous meeting laid the foundation for a shared artistic journey that transformed their living space into an ever-evolving canvas.

With 63 years of experience under her belt, Pann’s expertise lies in painting, while Duran, armed with a master’s degree from the Chouinard Art Institute, excels in constructing automaton sculptures. Together, they’ve crafted a unique artistic style known as Picassiette—a mosaic technique pioneered by French artist Raymond Isidore in 1938. This method, which translates to “stolen from the plate,” seamlessly integrates ceramic shards, discarded dishes, and assorted found objects into cohesive and captivating designs.

Tami Macala, a respected artist and former president of the Society of American Mosaic Artists, commends Pann and Duran’s prowess, stating, “It takes an eye for art and a deep understanding of various artistic elements to achieve such harmony in design.”

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Mosaic Tile House embodies Pann’s expansive vision as a living studio open to the public. Her fervent desire is for the home to transcend time, serving as an enduring beacon for future generations of artists. In realizing this dream, the couple has designated a section of their garden wall to budding mosaic artists, offering them a canvas to weave their narratives into the rich tapestry of the house’s history.

For those eager to experience this immersive artistic journey, reservations are available every Saturday from 12-3 p.m. Booking details can be obtained by reaching out to Pann and Duran directly via email.

The Mosaic Tile House stands not just as a testament to Pann and Duran’s love story but also as a vibrant testament to the transformative power of art and community collaboration.

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Ishara Art Foundation presents ‘Only Life, Myriad Places,’ a groundbreaking solo exhibition by Sudarshan Shetty. Showcasing his latest film ‘One Life Many’ alongside rare videos, installations, and sculptures, the exhibit blurs reality’s boundaries. Shetty’s work delves into the interplay between dreams and waking moments, memories and illusions. Eight significant pieces reflect his South Asian cultural fascination, emphasizing the ‘poetics of listening.’ The exhibition challenges conventional art preservation, inviting visitors to experience the ephemeral. ‘One Life, Myriad Places’ encourages multi-sensory perception, with physical, and virtual tours, educational events, and artist discussions enriching the experience.

Van Gogh X Japan
Theatre of Dreams and Art
14 July 2023–30 August 2023

Step into a world where art and history converge at the Van Gogh X Japan immersive exhibit. Explore the captivating synergy between traditional Japanese prints and iconic Western art, including the works of Van Gogh. Uncover the narrative behind each exquisite piece as Ukiyo-e influences Van Gogh’s style. Immerse yourself in a 360° visual feast, where every detail is magnified. And, a special treat awaits in the Secret Room—a contemporary New Media Narnia crafted by Japanese artists. With Kimono & Ikebana exhibitions, Masterclasses in Japanese flower arrangements, and Tea Ceremonies, this experience transcends time and place.

Made in Tashkeel 2023 Group exhibition
Alserkal Avenue, Warehouse 58
20 June 2023–8 September 2023

Tashkeel marks its 15th anniversary with the anticipated showcase ‘Made in Tashkeel.‘ This annual exhibition is a tribute to our shared odyssey, celebrating art and ingenuity. The event unites a remarkable array of creations from members, resident artists, workshop leaders, participants, and recent exhibitors who have contributed to Tashkeel’s journey. A testament to our commitment to artistry, ‘Made in Tashkeel’ embodies the spirit of creativity that has defined us for 15 years.

Letters of Light
Louvre Abu Dhabi
13 September 2023 – 14 January 2024

From September 13, 2023, to January 14, 2024, the ‘Letters of Light‘ exhibition unveils the sacred texts of three Abrahamic faiths – the Quran, the Christian Bible, and the Hebrew Bible. Hosted by Bibliothèque nationale de France, Musée du Louvre, and Louvre Abu Dhabi, visitors will marvel at these revered manuscripts and artifacts, tracing the origins, writings, and cross-cultural influence of monotheism. Immerse yourself in illuminated calligraphy, as skilled artisans’ work comes to life through precious pigments. This extraordinary exhibit, curated by Laurent Héricher and Dr. Souraya Noujaim, with associate curators Sabine Maffre and Khalid Chakor-Alami, promises an awe-inspiring exploration of art and spirituality.

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Bond Truluv’s artistry is characterized by his mastery of calligraphy and his constant reinvention of the letters that make up his distinctive moniker. With precision and skill, he crafts visually captivating graffiti pieces that blend seamlessly into their surroundings, elevating them from mere wall art to immersive installations. What sets his work apart is the deliberate use of light effects, which adds depth and dimensionality to his creations, resulting in an awe-inspiring visual experience.

His artistic journey has allowed him to transcend borders, and his works can be found gracing walls in various cities and landscapes around the world. From vibrant urban environments to serene natural settings, Bond Truluv’s graffiti art brings life and vibrancy to every location it touches. His ability to seamlessly integrate his pieces into their surroundings showcases his deep understanding of the interaction between art and its environment.

Bond Truluv’s impact extends beyond the realm of graffiti art, as his work serves as a bridge between cultures and communities. Through his art, he creates a visual language that transcends linguistic barriers, connecting people from diverse backgrounds through a shared appreciation for his captivating creations. His ability to bring together various artistic elements in a harmonious and visually striking manner has solidified his status as a globally recognized artist.

In the world of graffiti art, Bond Truluv has carved a unique niche for himself, captivating audiences with his reinvention of letters and his skillful manipulation of light and space. His ability to transform walls into immersive experiences demonstrates his artistic vision and dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional graffiti. With each new creation, Bond Truluv continues to inspire and leave an indelible mark on the global street art scene.

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To begin Dubai’s digital art festival, Michael Benistry will present his artworks that draw inspiration from the national bird of the UAE, The Falcon. The exhibition, which features a multi-sensory experience highlighting the beauty of the region, will be accompanied by an original score of Middle Eastern instruments. Notably, it is the world’s inaugural immersive artwork that stimulates all five senses, making it a must-see.

Starting on February 24th, ‘BoulevArt,’ a second event, will offer visitors an immersive experience of digital and video art, web3, and NFT art pieces. In addition, there will be a series of discussions and panel talks featuring renowned art personalities such as Sheidlina, Krista Kim, Federico Clapis, Sky Golpe, Rank SSS, Maggie West, OSF Rekt, Orkhan, Simon Dee, and Jalal Luqman, the first Emirati digital artist in the UAE. The event is free, but you must register in advance.

From February 27, an exhibition called ‘Sensations’ will feature works that are designed to be experienced on a multi-sensorial level. The exhibition will run until March 3.

Lorenzo Rosettani, CEO of Art in Space Dubai, expressed his enthusiasm for the groundbreaking digital art festival and its impact on the city. He stated, “There is no better time to showcase the artworks of these talented artists from all over the world than now. With Dubai’s vision to strengthen the art and culture scene, I am optimistic of the future of the art industry in this country.”

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The event was presented by Wasaya Investments and supported by Danube Properties, Rayna Tours, Barakat, Filli Cafe, 25 Degrees North restaurant, Graphics Hub, Focus Display Advertising, Veesham Printing Press, Melodica Music and Dance Center, our emcees Waleed and Bassam, Artlab, the Institute of Chartered Accounts of India, Indian Women in Dubai, the ACKAF Association, the Al Matiya Club, My Govindas, Experiential Marketing Products, Etisalat Yellow Pages, Sterling Perfumes, The Face Shop, Digitally Beyond Image, Magzoid Magazine, Khaleej Times, The Finance World Magazine, the Unite Podcast, Big 106.2, Talk 100.3, Zee TV, and MobiShastra. It was attended by a number of royal dignitaries including H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Abdulla Almulla, H.E. Juma Al Madani, H.E. Munira Albalooshi, Khalil Abdul Wahid, Faisal Abdul Qader among many others. The event featured an awe-inspiring collection of immersive gallery displays of six selected UAE-based artists, Varsha Sureka, Aakanksha Kshatriya, Stanislava Burianek, Afshan Nawaz Khan, Malini Karani, Anni Teriani, in a stunning 360-degree display.

Speaking about the event, artist Varsha Sureka said “It was an incredible chance to connect with imaginative individuals, such as artists and performers. A one-of-a-kind experience displaying my artwork in a fully-immersive setting. It was a dreamlike sensation witnessing my creations on such grand screens! Absolutely breath-taking. The organizers and the team were amazing, everything was well organized, and they created a great environment for all the artists and performers to showcase their work.”

The collective display was an unparalleled visual feast, showcasing the artists’ unique perspectives and styles in a way that was both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. The event not only showcased the stunning artwork from some of the most talented artists in the industry, but it also featured a series of spellbinding performances that elevated the experience to new heights. From the grace and poise of the ballerinas from the Melodica Music and Dance Center, to the mesmerizing Kathak performances led by the renowned Vaishali Mhaisalkar, to the high-energy and dynamic routines of the Just Dance Studio, every performance was a true masterpiece.

To top it off, the event featured an unforgettable violin performance by the virtuosic Kristina Borbova, whose masterful playing left the audience in a state of pure euphoria. These diverse and captivating performances perfectly complemented the amazing artwork on display and truly supported the celebration of unity and diversity that Ekta 2023 aimed to promote, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attended.

“The digital art exhibition was truly impressive. The use of technology to enhance the pieces was really well done, and it was great to see the artists’ unique visions come to life in a digital format,” said one of the guests.

Ekta 2023 was a resounding success, drawing in performing and visual art lovers from far and wide, captivated by the immersive digital art displays and the mesmerizing performances. The attendees were able to fully immerse themselves in the art and performances, experiencing them uniquely and interactively. The artists were on hand to provide an intimate look into their creative processes, answering questions and providing insights that deepened the understanding of their works.

“Artoze is ecstatic with the success of Ekta 2023, it exceeded all expectations and we are eternally grateful for the support of our attendees, artists, performers, and sponsors. This event was a triumph and a testament to the power of art to connect and inspire people. Artoze looks forward to continue to provide its support to the creative economy for years to come and create a memorable experience for all who attend,” said a spokesperson from the event.

“It was a great opportunity to meet creative minds, including artists and performers. A unique experience of showcasing my artwork in an immersive environment. It was a surreal feeling seeing my work on such large screens! Truly breath taking,” added Malini, a participating artist.

Art and culture have positioned themselves to be an intrinsic and highly influential part of society, and the creative economy has got a major role to play in the country’s economy. Events of these type help support and boost artistic and cultural diversity by creating big opportunities, thereby acting as a major boost in supporting the creative economy of the country.

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To help raise the profile of Saudi Art on the global stage, technology and traditional practices are being combined.

MIDWAM, based in Jeddah, has been promoting public and private-sector brands at festivals such as Noor Riyadh, MDLBEAST, and the AlUla Dates Festival.

Khalid Al-Muawad, co-founder and chief executive officer of MIDWAM, says that  “We look at the entire scene and take it from a human-centric approach and look at what can attract and engage a person toward that industry.”

In its collaboration with Noor Riyadh, the company collaborated with four Saudi artists to apply a hi-tech perspective to their creations.

Mohammed Al-Sanie, a contributing artist and senior member of MIDWAM’s production department, adds that “In our line of business, or even when working with artists, we usually consider technology as an enabler or as a tool. It shouldn’t be the star of what we’re doing, it should be a tool that we utilize.”

Al-Sanie’s work as a new-media artist is primarily influenced by the 1980s, retro science fiction, and the synthwave electronic music genre to explain the present and future through the past.

“Dreams in Color,” one of his pieces, is an outdoor LED installation that depicts an alternate version of Riyadh through video loops displayed on a screen framed by wood, cladding, and Styrofoam scaffolding.

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Al Wasl Plaza is one of 322 structures from 48 other nations that have been nominated for the prestigious yearly awards.

The building, which has a 130-meter circle and stands more than 67 metres tall, features an immersive projection experience. Its delicate-looking pattern was modelled on a 4,000-year-old Bronze Age ring discovered in the UAE, and it is known as the beating heart of the Expo 2020 site. The ring served as the model for the Expo 2020 Dubai logo.

The name Al Wasl, which means “the connection,” was chosen to honour the area’s history as a regional gathering place. The open area served as a focal point for gatherings during Expo 2020 Dubai and will continue to stand out as a feature of District 2020.

Al Wasl Plaza, created by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, was intended to be a microclimate that makes use of design and special materials to create a year-round usable semi-outdoor environment.

The interior of the dome’s sloped construction provided covered landscaped spaces throughout the day for a range of events, from intimate performances to massive concerts and dramatic shows. The world’s largest 360-degree immersive projection was used at night to transform the building into a spectacle.

Another Expo 2020 structure made the Dezeen Awards shortlist in two categories the previous year.

One of the 12 finalists will be declared the overall architecture project of the year after the shortlisted projects are published in September and the category winners are recognised in November.

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Q1. You have prominently established yourselves as successful designers making your mark in the creative industry. We would like to know about your very first step in the art world?

Gianfranco: I was born in Venice; Italy which is a town where art is everywhere. As a kid, whenever I looked at the reflection of the city in the water, I saw the image change every time. Back then, I felt it was no less than magic. That was the first nudge that pushed me into this world; to do something new with image and put it out in the world for the people to see. Whenever anyone asked me what I wanted as a present, the answer would be a camera. I used to take lots of photos back then. However, I wanted something more than to just frame the photos, just like the water in Venice. I wanted the world to see something different. Maybe immersive art as I know it started from there.

Bruno: Art had a strong presence in my family. I studied art and management and after I joined the French Ministry of Culture, I would see how museums and historical monuments were managed in the modern world. When I started, I created a space to bring new ways to showcase historical monuments in museums. It all started with a cave where some people were projecting images on the walls and Gianfranco had participated too. The Municipality Le Baux de Provence in France created a competition and we ended up winning it. Gianfranco helped us create a completely new space. It was my first step into this world and in France, it led to Lumière. A new concept of a digital art center, something different from a classic exhibition. We grew into this art niche with the help of Gianfranco.

Q2. Please tell us a bit about your educational background and how it influences your growth and actions now?

Gianfranco: My education is not related to art, per se. However, I was quite passionate about art. In the end, although unrelated, my education does play a role in what I do because subjects like geometry and sociology are vital in understanding society as we know it. In the digital art exhibition, people are experiencing the artwork individually but they are all together in the same space. This is where sociology comes in as it focuses on people and how they interact with each other. The world is too much to experience individually.

Bruno: When I was in the French Ministry of Culture, I realized that 30% of the French population are involved with art but 70% of them do not know much about it. This brings us to digital art and its purpose. We aim to bring in a new set of audience and introduce them to art. I also created a foundation whereby we could bring access to arts and culture to underprivileged and sick children.

Q3. What were your motivations to hop into what you do today?

Gianfranco: We aim to create something unique and share it with the world, to bring people together to experience immersive art and actively participate in what they see. Bruno and the company have created an opportunity where we can implement it. It is exciting for me to create new spaces to present to people.

Bruno: Exhibitions created by Gianfranco make this a wonderful experience. It is unlike anything out there in the market. We spark emotions within our visitors as they get immersed in the artwork, the artist, and the story.

Q4. Do you think Culturespaces has inspired other museums and cultural institutions to stage more digital exhibits?

Bruno: I think it is perfectly complementary. The purpose of digital art centers is to bring art to people albeit in a different way, a way we have never seen art before. It is for people who have not had much interaction with art as well as for those who have but can now experience it digitally. I think people who discover art here get to learn about the art and the artists, for example, Van Gogh. Museums will always be classic but they are not accessible to everyone. We bridge that gap by providing access to classic artworks halfway across the world.

Q5. Do you think the future of museums is digital?

Gianfranco: No, I personally don’t think so. Digital museums are a completely separate thing from museums. It opens a new medium. As Bruno said, we can project Van Gogh’s artwork through technology but museums are still a classic.

Bruno: Let’s put it this way; digital art is a museum for everybody and museums are for people to see the original artwork.

Q6. How has digital art evolved since you first started?

Bruno: I would say the development process has changed. With the availability of up-to-date technology, there have been new animations. We have decided to create quality spaces with a french touch- this has been our strategy and we believe it applies in the coming years as well. To be more concise, our evolution comes with technological evolution.

Q7 What do you look for when you are in the planning stage of creating the immersive artistic installation?

Gianfranco: The first thing I focus on is the space. For me, it is about taking an empty space and seeing how it is molded into something else, what kind of things can be done with the space. Moreover, how do people make sense of my work and what can they learn from it.

Q8. What are your current projects for the Infinity Des Lumières in particular?

For the upcoming year, we are taking inspiration from France to bring it to Dubai, keeping in mind the difference in audience. Nothing has been set in stone so far, which makes it quite interesting.

Q9. What message do you have for our readers?

It is important to dream. Keep dreaming and try to make it a reality. Experience immersive art for yourself with Infinity Des Lumières.

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