Explore the New: Three Must-See Exhibitions at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi has emerged as a cornerstone in the panorama of global art museums since its inauguration in 2017, reflecting the collaborative spirit between France and the UAE. Its unique architecture and diverse collection, inclusive of Islamic art and international masterpieces, underscore the museum’s vision as a cultural bridge.

This season, Louvre Abu Dhabi continues to shape the art world with a trio of must-see exhibitions spanning Post-Impressionism, African royal artforms, and significant loans from the Musée du Louvre in Paris. Each exhibition promises to offer insights into the rich tapestry of human creativity and historical narratives.

Louvre Abu Dhabi Art Here 2024 and Richard Mille Art Prize

Louvre Abu Dhabi, in partnership with Richard Mille, has introduced the “Art Here 2024” exhibition and art prize, an annual event designed to spotlight the contemporary art scene within the UAE and GCC. This initiative invites contemporary artists from the GCC and North Africa, focusing on those who specialize in sculpture and audio-visual installations suited for outdoor displays. The selected artists will have the unique opportunity to showcase their creations at the prestigious Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Key Details of the Exhibition and Art Prize

1. Application Process: Artists interested in participating must submit their applications by May 31, 2024. The application packet should include a Curriculum Vitae, a copy of ID or passport, resident permit proof for non-nationals, a portfolio, a concept explanation of the proposed artwork (500 words), technical specifications, and a provisional budget capped at 100,000 AED. Applications are to be uploaded as a combined PDF (maximum 20 pages) via the provided registration link.
2. Selection and Exhibition: The announcement of selected artists will be made in June 2024, with the inauguration of the exhibition scheduled for September 2024. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
3. Richard Mille Art Prize: The prize includes a significant cash award of USD $60,000, aiming to redefine benchmarks of contemporary creativity and support exceptional artists. The winner will be announced on the final day of the exhibition.

Previous Editions and Winners

• 2023 Winner: Nabla Yahya, who presented ‘SoftBank ,‘, a three-dimensional cartographic representation of the Suez Canal, focusing on the overlooked details and obscure histories of its initial construction from 1859-1869.
• 2022 Edition: Curated by Maya El Khalil under the theme ‘Transparency’, with Rand Abdul Jabbar receiving the Richard Mille Art Prize. The exhibition ran from November 18, 2022, to March 19, 2023, featuring jury members such as HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and Morad Montazami.

This initiative not only highlights the dynamic art scene in the region but also fosters a platform for artists to explore and express their creative potential, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Post-Impressionism: Beyond Appearances

Exhibition Overview

Curators: Jean-Remi Touzet and Jerome Farigoule
Duration: October 16, 2024 – February 9, 2025
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Partnership: Musée d’Orsay

Featured Artworks

1. Vincent van Gogh: Van Gogh’s Bedroom in Arles
2. Georges Hanna Sabbagh: Two masterpieces showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Egypt.

Artistic Context

• Transition Period: From Impressionism to the emergence of the fauves.
• Regions Represented: Europe and the Middle East

Significance

• Innovation: Highlights the period of artistic experimentation
• Cultural Integration: Combines notable works from both European and Arab artists.

Kings and Queens of Africa: Forms and Figures of Power

Exhibition Overview

Curators: Hélène Joubert, Malick Ndiaye El Hadji, Cindy Olohou
Duration: January 29, 2025 – May 25, 2025
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Partnership: Musée du Quai Branly

Featured Artworks

1. Ife Head from Nigeria: A significant artifact dating from the 12th to 14th century, symbolizing royal power and cultural heritage.

Artistic Context

• Cultural Representation: Showcases over 300 objects related to African royalty, emphasizing the continent’s rich history and cultural diversity.
• Collaboration: Developed in partnership with African institutions, ensuring authenticity and depth.

Significance

• Educational Value: Provides insights into the historical and cultural narratives of African kingdoms and queendoms.
• Cultural Exchange: Reflects Louvre Abu Dhabi’s commitment to cross-cultural dialogue and exploration of shared human experiences.

Significant Loan from Musée du Louvre

The Louvre Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its international ties through significant loans from the Musée du Louvre, enhancing its reputation as a global art hub. Among the masterpieces on loan, Leonardo da Vinci’s “Saint John the Baptist” stands out, showcasing the artist’s revolutionary techniques and deep religious symbolism. This painting, an oil-on-walnut piece, features the saint with a reassuring smile and a finger pointed skywards, symbolizing a divine message.

Highlighted Artifacts on Loan

1. Leonardo da Vinci’s “Saint John the Baptist”: On display for two years, this piece exemplifies da Vinci’s mastery of chiaroscuro and sfumato, contributing to its ethereal and lifelike presentation.
2. Cippi from Musée du Louvre and National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta: These ornamental pillars, reunited after centuries, feature inscriptions crucial to the understanding of the Phoenician alphabet and represent a significant cultural exchange between Malta, the UAE, and France.
3. Regional Artifacts: Showcasing a commitment to cultural representation, Louvre Abu Dhabi displays artifacts from across the UAE, including pieces from Al Ain Museum and Sharjah Archaeology Authority, among others.

Table of Artifacts and Their Origins

These loans not only depict the rich tapestry of global art but also symbolize the deep-rooted collaboration between the United Arab Emirates and France, fostering a dialogue of cultural exchange and mutual respect.

As the Louvre Abu Dhabi continues to emerge as a beacon of cultural and artistic exchange, its latest offerings – from the exploration of contemporary art through the “Art Here 2024” to the deep dive into Post-Impressionism and the profound narratives of African royalty – showcase its pivotal role in bridging diverse worlds. These exhibitions not only highlight the museum’s commitment to presenting a rich tapestry of human creativity but also its mission to serve as a platform for dialogue between cultures. The convergence of artworks from around the globe, coupled with significant loans from the Musée du Louvre, underscores a shared human experience through the universal language of art.

Reflecting on the exhibitions and their broader implications, it is evident that Louvre Abu Dhabi’s initiatives extend far beyond aesthetic exploration. They invite a contemplation of our shared histories, the power of cultural representation, and the relentless pursuit of innovation in the arts. As these exhibitions conclude, they leave an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, highlighting the importance of sustained dialogue and collaboration in fostering a more interconnected world. Moreover, these endeavours amplify the call for ongoing research and action, encouraging both artists and audiences alike to continue exploring the endless possibilities within the realm of global artistry and heritage.