Art enthusiasts in the UAE are gearing up for an exciting season filled with must-see exhibitions. From the iconic Post-Impressionist masterpieces at the Louvre Abu Dhabi to the intricate dirham-sized paintings by artist Mason Rempfer, there’s something for everyone. Immerse yourself in compelling cultural narratives, explore the intersection of identity and space, and witness unique global perspectives. Here’s your guide to the top six art exhibitions you won’t want to miss in the UAE.
As winter arrives, art lovers in the UAE can look forward to a series of captivating exhibitions bursting onto the scene.
POST-IMPRESSIONISM BEYOND APPEARANCES – LOUVRE ABU DHABI, SAADIYAT ISLAND
From October 16, 2024, to February 9, 2025, art lovers can explore the evolution of art following the Impressionist era at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The exhibition, titled Post-Impressionism Beyond Appearances, examines how artists broke away from Impressionism to delve into symbolism and abstraction. It showcases over 100 iconic works by Van Gogh, Cézanne, Gauguin, and Seurat, including Van Gogh’s renowned Bedroom in Arles.
HOMEPAGE – TASHKEEL, ALSERKAL AVENUE
Tashkeel presents Homepage, a solo exhibition by artist Mouza Al Hamrani, bridging the virtual and physical worlds. Running from September 10 to October 15, the exhibition captures the impact of Khaleeji cyberspace on modern culture, emphasizing the online anonymity experienced during a time when the GCC was cautious about the World Wide Web.
THAT WHICH DOES NOT BELONG – THE ARTS CLUB DUBAI
The Arts Club Dubai features an installation of interdisciplinary works by the UAE-based artist collective Ramin Haerizadeh, Rokni Haerizadeh, and Hesam Rahmanian. On display from February 1 to October 1, 2024, the exhibition, curated by Pernilla Holmes and Amelie Von Wedel of Wedel Art, includes two sculptures and various three-dimensional collages and paintings that challenge conventional notions of identity and art.
BEHIND THE DHIRAM – KHAWLA ART GALLERY, D3
Explore the art behind the dirham with Dubai-based multidisciplinary artist Mason Rempfer, who presents 138 miniature dirham-sized watercolor paintings. His solo exhibition at Khawla Art Gallery runs from September 10 to October 18. Join an exclusive tour led by the artist on Saturday, September 28, at 3:00 PM.
KA AWATEA, A NEW DAWN – AL MURIEJAH SQUARE, SHARJAH
Experience the powerful works of New Zealand artist Emily Karaka in Ka Awatea. This Sharjah exhibition, running from September 7 to December 1, 2024, features her vibrant and politically charged paintings that reflect her Maori heritage, addressing the historical and ongoing struggles of indigenous peoples. It’s a must-see for those interested in socially conscious art.
NIGHT STONE – JAMEEL ARTS CENTRE, DUBAI
Dive into Candice Lin’s Night Stone, her first solo exhibition in West Asia. This installation explores historical trade links between Australia and China, focusing on manganese extraction and its ecological impact. Lin’s work, which combines ceramics and multimedia, draws connections between colonial histories and industrial activities. The installation features a ceramic-adorned water wheel symbolizing trade cycles and environmental degradation, on display from September 26, 2024, to January 12, 2025.
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