When: Until 8 June
Address: Saadiyat Island, Cultural District, Abu Dhabi
Being Is Elsewhere, Rizq
RAi, a pioneering female-led art space, is making waves in Abu Dhabi’s vibrant cultural district with its inaugural exhibition, **Being Is Elsewhere**. Opening its doors in January 2024, RAi is dedicated to uplifting voices from the Global South, nurturing both emerging and established artists, curators, and researchers. This unique platform is positioning itself as a crucial element of the capital’s artistic landscape.
The first dual-solo show features the thought-provoking works of **Zahra Shafie** and **Tala Hammound Atrouni**. Their artistic expressions delve into deep themes of memory and belonging, utilizing an eclectic mix of mediums including painting, ceramics, installation, and textiles. The artworks serve as a poignant and introspective exploration of migration, feminine narratives, and the evolving notion of home. Visitors can expect a serene yet impactful experience, as both artists invite audiences to reflect on personal and collective histories through their compelling visual dialogues.
When: June 30
Where: Leaf Tower, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia, Warehouse421
Tucked away in Abu Dhabi’s Mina Zayed, **Warehouse421** stands as an independent art haven that champions up-and-coming creatives from the UAE and beyond. Its latest exhibition, **Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia**, is curated by Tarek Abou El Fetouh and features the evocative works of Emirati artist **Abdullah Al Saadi**.
This exhibition extends upon Al Saadi’s contribution to the 2024 Venice Biennale, where he explores intricate themes of memory, storytelling, and the natural world. Through a diverse collection of paintings, drawings, and artifacts crafted during his solitary travels, the exhibition invites visitors to engage with hidden artworks cleverly stored in chests. This archival approach not only preserves memory but also encourages viewers to ponder the narratives we weave about our experiences and environment, creating layers of meaning that resonate across generations.
When: Until 25 August
Where: 421 Arts Campus, Zayed Port, Al Mina, Abu Dhabi
Sharjah
Sharjah Biennial 16: To Carry
An exciting cultural highlight, the **Sharjah Biennial 16**, runs until June, showcasing the richness of contemporary art on a grand scale. This edition, subtitled **To Carry**, is one of the largest art events in the Arab world and has been instrumental in shaping the region’s artistic narrative for over two decades.
With contributions from **over 190 artists** and **200 new commissions**, the Biennial reflects on weighty themes of history, migration, and survival. The exhibition is curated by a diverse team including Alia Swastika, Amal Khalaf, Megan Tamati-Quennell, Natasha Ginwala, and Zeynep Öz, ensuring a multi-faceted exploration of intergenerational narratives, political resistance, and ritualistic practices. Visitors can expect an immersive experience that encompasses film, sound, performance, and text, providing a profound context that speaks to the complexities of contemporary existence.
When: Until 15 June
Address: Multiple venues in Sharjah
