Dubai’s Vibrant Art Scene Comes to London
A new exhibition on contemporary Arab art has made its debut at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London, showcasing over 40 pieces that are sure to captivate art enthusiasts.
Curated from the esteemed collection of the Barjeel Art Foundation in Sharjah, UAE, the 21st-century artworks on display include a diverse range of paintings, photographs, and sculptures.
Highlighted participants in the exhibition at the university’s Brunei Gallery include the Palestinian installation artist Mona Hatoum, Moroccan-Spanish painter Anuar Khalifi, Emirati photographer Lamya Gargash, and multidisciplinary Saudi Arabian artist Manal AlDowayan.
“Hudood: Rethinking Boundaries.” (Photography by Mohamed Somji, courtesy of Barjeel Art Foundation, Sharjah)
Titled “Hudood: Rethinking Boundaries,” the exhibition will run until Sept. 21, inviting viewers to contemplate themes of identity and displacement in the modern world.
Sultan Sooud Al-Qassemi, the visionary founder of the Barjeel Art Foundation, who began teaching at SOAS in 2023, shared, “The exhibition delves into how boundaries influence personal and collective identities, particularly in the context of displacement and migration. It also explores how political and social constructs of boundaries impact individuals and communities, reflecting on themes of conflict, unity, and division.”
“Hudood: Rethinking Boundaries.” (Photography by Mohamed Somji, courtesy of Barjeel Art Foundation, Sharjah)
Against the backdrop of anti-immigration riots in England and Northern Ireland, the exhibition provides a timely exploration of the impact of boundaries on society.
What sets this exhibition apart is that it has been curated by eight SOAS students, who selected their theme based on personal conversations and opted for an Arabic title, meaning “boundaries,” to encapsulate the essence of the show.
Al-Qassemi noted, “The students’ diverse perspectives and innovative ideas brought fresh insights to the exhibition, ensuring it resonated with a wider audience. This student-led approach also offered them a unique opportunity to engage directly with contemporary art and curatorial practices.”
“Hudood: Rethinking Boundaries.” (Photography by Mohamed Somji, courtesy of Barjeel Art Foundation, Sharjah)
Last year, the foundation’s modern artworks were displayed at Christie’s auction house in London, but this year’s exhibition offers a new experience and flavor.
“We are delighted to bring the collection to London for the second year in a row,” Al-Qassemi expressed. “London serves as a major hub for visitors from the Arab world during the summer season, providing them with an opportunity to connect with art from their region while in the city.”