Mariam Nihal Saudi Gazette The Ara Gallery in Downtown Dubai is hosting “UAE | A Work of Art,” an exhibition that portrays the soul of the Arabian gem by bringing back the nation's culture, heritage, and traditions through the works of eight Emirati artists. The exhibiting artists are Alia Al Malik, Anood Obaidly, Shamsa Bin Dasmal, Thuraiya Ismail, Hamad Al Falasi, Maitha Al Marri, Shamsa Al Abbar and Wafa Al Qasaimi. The exhibition that started in summer will run until September. Laurel Munshower, assistant manager at The Ara Gallery, told Saudi Gazette.” As always we're thrilled to give another group of Emirati artists the chance to gain some great exposure in the region's growing art market.” “UAE | A Work of Art” proved to be one of the most popular exhibitions last year. With the holy month of Ramadan currently falling during the same time period, we felt it was fitting to turn this exhibition into an annual celebration of culture and heritage of the United Arab Emirates,” Munshower said. On the second annual edition of the “UAE | A Work of Art,” the exhibit features exemplary artworks of eight Emirati artists, who have showcased the heritage and traditions shared by the people of the closely-knit nation. “Artworks such as “Part Not Apart” by Dr Hamad Al Falasi, “One Family, One Home, One Country” by Alia Al Malik, and Wafa Al Qasaimi's “Irresistible Generosity” series have been created through a variety of media and individual styles. They all reach out to the beauty of the UAE's local traditions and the tight family bonds that are shared here,” Munshower said. The exhibition's concept seeks to generate interest among a wide range of visitors, from Emiratis who were raised in this rich culture and appreciate the artistic homage to expats' and tourists who are interested in coming and learning about the traditions of the UAE. The close family ties, the beauty of the UAE's sand dunes, the crisp taste of Arabic coffee and the Emirati culture are also showcased in this exhibition. The talented group of artists will use their creativity to give the visitos a taste of what truly means to be an Emirati.Moza Mohamed Al Abbar, founder of The Ara Gallery, established the gallery in 2011. He is dedicated toward helping the emerging artists in the Arab world.
