Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation Debuts Three Diverse Exhibitions For 2024 Season

The Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi, under the auspices of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has unveiled three enthralling exhibitions for its 2024 season, starting Thursday, 22nd February. These exhibitions, diverse in their themes and artistic expressions, offer a deep dive into both regional and international art and culture.

This exhibition presents a comprehensive look at four decades of Hussein Sharif's artistic journey. As a pivotal figure in the UAE's postmodernist art scene, Sharif's work spans painting, drawing, collage, and sculpture. His significance is further underscored as a member of the influential 'Five', a group credited with laying the foundations of contemporary art in the UAE. Alongside Sharif, this group includes Hassan Sharif, Abdullah Al Saadi, Mohammed Kazem, and Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim. Curators Aysha Al Hemeiri and Zuhoor Al Sayegh have meticulously assembled this exhibition, which will be available to the public until 1st September 2024.

Exploring the resilience and beauty of the UAE's indigenous flora, "Native: Plants in the UAE" is a group art exhibition that combines art installations with informative exhibits. From the iconic Ghaf tree to hardy desert grasses, this exhibition tells a compelling story of adaptation and survival. Curated by Sumayya Al Suwaidi with assistance from Aysha Al Aseeri and Huda Marzooq, this exhibition also runs until 1st September 2024.

Through the Seasons with Eric Carle

For the first time in the region, "Through the Seasons with Eric Carle" celebrates the illustrious career of Eric Carle, a world-renowned illustrator and author known for his young children's books. This exhibition showcases original artworks from Carle's career, including his famous painted tissue-paper collages and unpublished work. The Very Hungry Caterpillar author's showcase is curated by Reem AlHashimi and will remain open until 22nd August 2024. This exhibition is organized by The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Massachusetts, United States.

The Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi continues to enrich the cultural landscape with these exhibitions alongside a vibrant array of performances, activities, workshops, and courses for its 2024 season. Admission to the Cultural Foundation is complimentary. The venue welcomes visitors from Saturday to Thursday between 9:00 to 20:00 and on Fridays from 14:00 to 20:00.

These exhibitions not only highlight the diverse artistic talents from within and outside the UAE but also serve as a platform for cultural exchange and understanding. Through showcasing such varied works – from Hussein Sharif's multidisciplinary approach to Eric Carle's beloved illustrations – Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi affirms its commitment to fostering an appreciation for arts and culture in all its forms.

With inputs from WAM