Emirati Visual Art Shines in Seoul: A Landmark Exhibition
Introduction to ‘Proximities’
H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, the Minister of Culture, attended the opening of ‘Proximities’—a groundbreaking exhibition featuring Emirati visual art, hosted in Seoul, South Korea. This remarkable event, organized by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) in collaboration with the Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA), is set to run from December 16 to March 29, 2026.
A Milestone for Cultural Exchange
Under the esteemed patronage of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, this exhibition is a significant milestone aimed at deepening cultural ties between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and South Korea. Over the years, bilateral relations have flourished, driven by collaborative initiatives encompassing arts, cinema, and heritage, as well as various cultural programs and events.
Remarks from H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi
In his opening speech, H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi emphasized the importance of the exhibition in promoting artistic exploration and fostering cultural exchange. He remarked on how art has the potential to connect diverse cultures, enhance dialogue, and create enduring human bonds.
“We share a robust relationship with the Republic of Korea, grounded in mutual respect and shared values,” he stated. His Excellency noted that this partnership has evolved over the years, encompassing various fields including heritage, cinema, literature, and visual arts—ultimately enriching the cultural landscapes of both nations.
Cultural Heritage as a Foundation
Sheikh Al Qassimi articulated his vision of cultural heritage as a bridge linking the past to the present. He expressed that this perspective serves as a strong foundation for future initiatives. “We view culture as the cornerstone of our diversified knowledge economy,” he said, highlighting the UAE’s investments in creative industries to support local artists and showcase rich heritage on a global scale.
Exhibition Highlights
The ‘Proximities’ exhibition features more than 100 artworks from 47 artists, including 33 Emirati talents across three generations. This collection represents a comprehensive overview of the evolution of contemporary Emirati visual art over the last five decades.
Manifested through various forms—photography, video, painting, sculpture, performance, and installation—the exhibition delves into how artistic interpretation can shift over time and geography. It explores the themes of cultural proximity, geographic closeness, and shared narratives that influence transformation while celebrating distinct differences.
Curatorial Insights
Co-curated by Maya El Khalil and Eunju Kim, the exhibition unfolds through three thematic sections, developed in collaboration with guest curators such as Farah Al Qasimi, Mohammed Kazem, Cristiana de Marchi, and the artist group RRH (Ramin Haerizadeh, Rokni Haerizadeh, and Hesam Rahmanian). Each theme offers attendees a fresh perspective on viewing the world, drawing attention to both the similarities and contrasts of different cultural outlooks.
Visitors are invited to engage with the artistic spaces crafted within the exhibition, encouraging introspection, dialogue, and discovery.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
The UAE’s active participation in ‘Proximities’ underscores the longstanding cultural relations between the two countries. These ties were officially established in 1980 and have been bolstered by initiatives such as the UAE-Korea Cultural Dialogue in 2020, along with several cultural memorandums of understanding signed in May 2024 aimed at advancing cooperation in arts, heritage, and creative industries.
This landmark event not only showcases Emirati artistry but also emphasizes the ongoing commitment to cultural exchange, enriching both the UAE and South Korea’s artistic landscapes through shared understanding and appreciation of each other’s heritage.
