Two pieces of art from leading Emirati artists will be displayed in The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi until May 14. Point of View, by Jalal Luqman resembles haphazard stacks of boxes from multiple perspectives, but from the optimal position they can be seen to spell the word ‘Allah’. It talks about the search for the truth that joins us together as humans.
Mattar bin Lahej’s three-metre sculpture titled ‘Rhapsody of Culture’ depicts a pearl suspended within enveloping folds that culminate in a long, thin shaft of stainless steel and it comments on the fusion between technology and art.
The art works were commissioned by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) last year to commemorate Abu Dhabi Festival’s 10th anniversary.
Hoda Al Khamis Kanoo, the ADMAF founder said they were on the island to give them a new lease of life. “Each year, Abu Dhabi Festival seeks to contribute to the growth and development of the UAE contemporary visual arts sector by supporting the creation of innovative, new work. Last year, we awarded renowned Emirati artists Jalal Luqman and Mattar Bin Lahej Abu Dhabi Festival Commissions. In keeping with the Festival’s tradition of fostering culture and preserving Emirati identity, I am delighted that these wonderful commissions will be kept alive in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s new Central Business District for the public to appreciate and enjoy.”
