Dubai, UAE – July 5, 2024 – In a vibrant celebration of art and creativity, Funun Arts Group proudly inaugurated the Absolutely Abstract Art Exhibition in collaboration with Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre on July 5th. This remarkable exhibition, showcasing the works of 23 artists from 10 different nationalities, offers art enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in abstract art until August 30, 2024.
The Abstract Art Exhibition features an extensive collection of artworks that reflect the diverse perspectives of the participating artists. Each piece exemplifies the hallmarks of abstraction: bold brushwork, vivid colours, and an emphasis on capturing the fleeting effects of light. The exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the minds of the artists, who convey their thoughts and emotions through their abstract creations.
The opening ceremony was a grand affair, attended by esteemed guests and notable artists. Among them was Mr. Faisal Abdul Qader, a legendary Emirati artist, whose presence added a touch of prestige to the event. Other distinguished guests included Ahmed Al Awadhi, Akshay Arora, Mohd. Yusuf, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Tara Sabz, Anjani Prakash Laitu, and Vidisha Pandey. Their attendance underscored the significance of the exhibition within the art community.
The exhibition provides a platform for 23 artists to exhibit their artworks, each contributing their unique style and perspective to the theme of abstraction. The participating artists include Ahmed Al Awadhi, Amr Wadea, Anjini Prakash Laitu, Art Keti, Basma Nader, Dalia Samaa, Debra S. Mascarenhas, Dr. Anum Ali, Dr. Javeria Nabahat Amin, Dr. Sangeeta Sanjay Parashar, Farea Mehreen, Fatima Asif, Fatime Ibrahim, Khaled Ali Khaled, Meeran Nasir, Pari Sagar, Rooma Eejaz, Roydan Barboza, Sabah Anees, Sandeep Soni, Sara Javaid, Shiba Khan, and Youness Siraj Mounir.
Shiba Khan, Founder and Director of Funun Arts Group, expressed her excitement about the exhibition: “The main purpose of abstraction in art is not to tell a story, but to encourage involvement and imagination. This art form has as its main objective to provide viewers with an intangible and emotional experience, being completely different for each individual, depending on their personality and mood. We hope to offer art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the colors, textures, and emotions that define abstraction in art.”
Farah Khan, Creative Designer and Co-Founder of Funun Arts Group, echoed these sentiments, adding, “We are thrilled to celebrate the enduring legacy of different art movements through immersive art exhibitions. As we honor the abstract art, we invite visitors to be inspired by the bold experimentation and innovative vision of participating artists.”
Laura Nicli, Hotel Manager at Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, shared her enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We are proud to collaborate with Funun Arts Group and support the artists at the T-Lounge by Dilmah. Artist Playground by Pullman is a true and dedicated art hub that enables us to give a platform to local and internationally renowned artists and designers to exhibit their works to the art lovers of Dubai and UAE.”
The exhibition also provided a platform for contemporary artists to share their reflections on the theme. Ahmad Al Awadhi, a pioneer artist and special guest, expressed his delight: “It was a pleasure to experience the different forms of abstract art by the dynamic and delightful artists of Funun Arts Group. Seeing all the beautiful artworks and hearing the perspectives behind each piece was an enlightening experience.”
Akshay Arora, a legendary artist and special guest, discussed the origins and essence of abstract art: “Abstraction indicates a departure from reality in the depiction of imagery in art. This departure from accurate representation can be slight, partial, or complete. Abstraction exists along a continuum. Even art that aims for verisimilitude of the highest degree can be said to be abstract, at least theoretically, since perfect representation is impossible.”
Amr Wadea, an architect and artist, elaborated on his approach: “Artwork which takes liberties, e.g., altering color or form in ways that are conspicuous, can be said to be partially abstract. Total abstraction bears no trace of any reference to anything recognizable. In geometric abstraction, for instance, one is unlikely to find references to naturalistic entities. In my three paintings, I tried to convey the message that ‘The truth is, abstract art is not ‘about nothing.’ At its basis, it is about form, color, line, texture, pattern, composition, and process. These are the formal qualities of artwork, because they describe what the art looks like and how it is created. Abstract art is an exploration of these formal qualities.”
Basma Nader, an Egyptian artist, praised the exhibition’s theme, saying, “Abstract art is emotionally and aesthetically malleable. It is open to interpretation and its appeal does not alter when trends or fashions change. Abstract art is meaningful and personal. It is a full mind and body experience.”
Emirati artist Khaled Ali Khaled reflected on his inspiration: “It is important to realize in advance that I, as an abstract artist, do not strive to represent reality by form or color. Instead, I shape my art by converting my feelings, mood, emotions, or perceptions into an interplay of colors, shapes, lines, and structures in my paintings.”
Roydan Barboza, an Indian artist, explained his approach: “My artwork represents different moving parts, shapes, and colors. I tried to create a story for the viewer, and that’s the beauty of abstract art.”
Abstract art originated in the 19th century, but as a full-fledged new kind of art, it rose on the cusp of the 20th century. The first major movements of abstract art included Surrealism, Fauvism, Cubism, and Dadaism. Funun Arts Group aims not only to provide a platform for artists to exhibit their work but also to educate them about various art movements and styles. This educational mission enriches the artists’ understanding and appreciation of different art forms, fostering a community of well-informed and versatile artists.
The success of this exhibition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Funun Arts Group team, the artists, and the supporters. Shiba Khan and Farah Khan extended their gratitude, saying, “We are thankful to the entire art community for believing in us, and we promise to keep working in the best possible way for the whole community.”
Art enthusiasts are invited to visit this extraordinary exhibition at the Artist Playground in Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, which will be on display until the end of August 2024. This is a unique opportunity to explore the creative expressions of these talented individuals and experience the magic of Absolutely Abstract.
About Funun Arts Group
Funun Arts Group is a leading arts organization dedicated to promoting creativity and cultural exchange in the UAE. Through exhibitions, workshops, and community events, Funun Arts Group aims to foster appreciation for the arts and support emerging artists in the region. Their mission is to create an inclusive platform where artists can not only showcase their work but also learn and grow through exposure to diverse art movements and techniques.
About Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre
Artist Playground by Pullman has always been the space for local artists to display their talent and creativity. Located 10 minutes’ away from Dubai International Airport, Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre is perfect for business and leisure travelers. Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre stands watch over the historic Dubai Creek and the rolling green fairways of Dubai Golf and Yacht Club. The hotel’s superb location close to the Dubai International Airport and City Centre Deira shopping mall, lets guests capture the essence of the city, which is just one of this luxury 5-star hotel’s many assets
