With over 900 pieces of art by 300 artists from 80 galleries in 28 countries, Abu Dhabi Art, now in its 14th year, has an exciting lineup for this year’s festival. It begins today.

The event has developed a multidisciplinary platform, reflecting international discourse and experimental concepts, Rita Aoun, executive director of culture at the Department of Culture and Tourism In Abu Dhabi, stated at a press conference.

The art fair has significantly aided in the growth of Abu Dhabi’s creative industries, offering visitors the chance to learn about modern cultural practices while promoting local talent.

“It’s also been a constant witness of significant development of the capital’s cultural scene. It continues to evolve with its own artistic and cultural identity, to reflect and showcase the cultural dynamics of Abu Dhabi, the UAE, and the region,” said Aoun.

This year’s fair has participation from 33 new galleries based out of Colombia, France, Tunisia, Italy, Nigeria, South Korea, Italy, Morocco, Turkey, the UAE, and other countries.

New Tomorrows, an exhibition of galleries and artists highlighting the development of North African art, presented by art historian and philosophy professor Rachida Triki, is the major highlight of the event. 

Meanwhile, My Life in the Metaverse exhibition, which examines the background and aesthetics of digital culture, has been curated by writer and cultural historian Omar Kholeif. Three young artists from the UAE—Sarah Al Mehairi, Majd Alloush, and Mohammed Khalid—are featured in this year’s Beyond: Emerging Artists exhibition.

Along with the Al Saadi, Senatore, and Shawcross, three art students who competed in the Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award competition, Shaikha Al Mazrou, Ngozi-Omeje Ezema, Farah Al Qasimi, Slimen Elkamel, Farid Belkahia, and seven other well-known artists have their work on display as part of the festival’s In and Around program.

“The UAE, as a nation, has been heavily invested in the cultural and creative sector, as the country’s leadership has long recognized the importance of fostering a robust cultural economy,” Aoun said.

Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas comes to the Middle East on 23 November 2022. Click here to know more.