News DeskAbu Dhabi, UAE – The inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial launched this past weekend, ushering in a dynamic celebration of creativity and culture. Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), this landmark event transformed downtown Abu Dhabi and Al Ain into vibrant hubs of artistic expression, attracting crowds of visitors from diverse backgrounds.
Running until 30 April 2025, the Biennial explores the concept of ‘public’ within Abu Dhabi’s unique context, featuring works by over 70 artists from the UAE and around the world. These installations reflect the city’s environmental conditions, communal lifestyle, indigeneity, architecture, and urban planning.
Biennial Routes and Highlights:
Abu Dhabi Corniche Route: A one-hour walking route showcasing works by artists such as Wael Al Awar, Oscar Murillo, and Farah Al Qasimi.
Abu Dhabi Public Parks Route: A one-hour walking route spanning various parks, featuring creations by Abdullah Al Saadi, Lawrence Abu Hamdan, and others.
Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal Route: A 30-minute walking route with art inside and outside the terminal by Hussein Sharif, Zeinab Alhashemi, and more.
Downtown Abu Dhabi Route: A one-hour walking route presenting works by Azza Al Qubaisi, SUPERFLEX, and others.
Carpet Souq Route: A 40-minute driving route with pieces by Christopher Joshua Benton, Khalil Rabah, and more.
National Theatre Route: A 30-minute driving route featuring works by Afra Al Dhaheri and Kabir Mohanty.
Cultural Foundation Route: A 30-minute walking route highlighting works by Mohamed Al Astad, Ayesha Hadir, and more.
Al Ain Oasis Route: A 45-minute driving route featuring works by Rawdha Al Ketbi, Shaikha Al Ketbi, and others.
Community Hubs and Public Programme: The Biennial’s Community Hubs, located in key public spaces, offer visitors a festive atmosphere with performances, pop-up restaurants, and vibrant shops. These Hubs aim to enrich the Biennial experience by providing areas for food, celebration, and various activities.
An extensive Public Programme complements the Biennial, including talks, film screenings, interactive experiences, workshops, children’s activities, tours, and wellness events. Highlights from the opening weekend included a musical show by Tania Candiani and a performance by Emirati artist Afra Al Dhaheri.
Upcoming Events:
19 November: Sound artist Safeya Alblooshi’s participatory performance at Abu Dhabi Corniche.
22 November: Multidisciplinary artist Ntshepe Tsekere’s listening session, performance, and talk.
23 November: guBuyoBand’s interactive workshop at Cultural Foundation.
24 November: Poet Deepak Unnikrishnan’s workshop at Abu Dhabi Main Bus Terminal.
The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial is a pivotal component of the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, alongside annual direct commissions and the biannual Manar Abu Dhabi light art exhibition. The Biennial will unveil a second wave of installations in January 2025, featuring prominent artists and collectives.
