PROXIMITIES Exhibition Highlights Growing Cultural Ties Between UAE And Korea

The "PROXIMITIES" exhibition at the Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) highlights the deepening cultural ties between the UAE and South Korea. First Lady Kim Hea Kyung of South Korea noted that this event builds on her recent UAE visit, enhancing cultural exchange. She thanked Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, for inviting her to this platform for sustainable cultural cooperation.

Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi emphasised that the exhibition aligns with the UAE's vision of fostering international cultural connections. It supports artistic exchange and promotes growth in cultural and creative industries. The exhibition is organised by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) in collaboration with SeMA, marking it as the largest of its kind in East Asia.

Abdulla Saif Ali Slayem AlNuaimi, UAE Ambassador to South Korea, highlighted that hosting "PROXIMITIES" in Seoul underscores the robust cultural relations between both nations. The exhibition presents a comprehensive narrative of visual arts evolution in the UAE over five decades, featuring works from pioneering and contemporary artists alike.

Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF and Artistic Director of Abu Dhabi Festival, explained that the exhibition utilises various art forms like photography, video, sculpture, and performance. These mediums showcase how traditional heritage intersects with modern progress, offering a rich tapestry of Emirati creativity.

Kim Tae-kyun, First Deputy Mayor of Seoul, remarked on the exhibition's role in reflecting strong friendship and cultural cooperation between Abu Dhabi and Seoul. He noted art’s power as a universal language to bridge cultural differences and bring communities closer together.

Choi Eun-ju, Director-General of SeMA, described the event as Korea's most comprehensive display of contemporary Emirati art to date. It offers a platform to transcend geographic and cultural boundaries while reflecting on the enduring value of artistic exchange.

The exhibition will continue until 29th March 2026. It is part of a long-term partnership aimed at strengthening cultural exchange and artistic dialogue between the UAE and South Korea.

With inputs from WAM