Arab art will shine outside of the Middle East this summer. Christie’s will showcase more than 150 works of Arab art in various mediums, such as paintings, sculptures, drawings, and installations. The artworks span 80 years filled with creativity from 1939 to 2023. 

The exhibition is titled Modern and Contemporary Art of the Arab World and will be divided into two sections. The first is Kawkaba: Highlights from the Barjeel Art Foundation (Kawkaba means constellations in Arabic), encapsulating 100 pieces created in 2010 by Sultan Soud Al Qassemi. The second is Emirati Art Reimagined: Hassan Sharif and the Contemporary Voices, paying homage to the late Emirati artist and exploring the impact of his introduction to conceptual art in the region.

This display will mark the first time that such an extensive exhibition of Arab art will be on view in London. In partnership with the UAE Ministry of Culture and Youth and the Barjeel Art Foundation in Sharjah, UAE, the art exhibition is curated by Dr. Ridha Moumni, deputy chairperson of Christie’s Middle East and North Africa.

“Modern and contemporary art of the region is a unique opportunity to bring together masterpieces by leading artists of the Arab World. The exhibition not only celebrates high-profile artists such as Hassan Sharif but shines a light on the unparalleled creativity, diversity, and rich histories of North African and West Asian cultures,” says Moumni. 

The exhibition will run from July 20 to August 23.