ABU DHABI: Following the spectacular launch of Manar Abu Dhabi in November, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi unveiled a second series of experiential light art installations today.
Abu Dhabi’s Al Samaliyah Island will be illuminated by a number of works, including several installations by globally renowned international art collective teamLab. This immersive experience will transform the mangrove island into a dynamic art space, where light and environment interact in a symphony of colours and sounds. Key highlights include the Resonating Microcosms – Solidified Light Colour, where ovoids glow and resonate with sound and light upon interaction.
Pillars that Dance with the Wind features structures moving in the air, exploring the harmony between structure and flow. Further down the path, Forest of Autonomous Resonating Life is a captivating installation where standing ovoids of light change colour and tone, reacting to environmental stimuli like wind and human touch. Through these installati
ons, teamLab aims to transcend the boundaries in our perception of time, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the continuity of life and the interplay of nature and digital art.
Exploring the fusion of nature and technology, Ayman Zedani’s Terrapolis investigates the relationship between humans and nature, blurring the boundaries among various life forms and encouraging a deeper understanding of our bond with the earth and other species within the contemporary context of the Gulf. Meanwhile, Mohammed Kazem’s Directions, UAE, symbolises the spirit of unity and endless possibilities in the UAE; a circular configuration of numerical coordinates, the works represents the collaborative spirit and developmental narrative of the nation.
At Jubail Mangrove Park on nearby Al Jubail Island, Rain Wu captivates the viewers in One with the Soil, One with the Cloud, where the artist uses a constellation of lights to portray the life cycle of mangrove trees, highlighting the transient nature of existence a
nd offering a distinct aerial perspective on the living world.
Finally, celebrating a new cultural district in the making with Rise, Alaa Edris reimagines Saadiyat Island against the backdrop of the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Museum, offering a fresh outlook on this evolving iconic location.
These new additions to the larger Manar Abu Dhabi inaugural edition are part of more than 35 site-specific art commissions by over 20 local, regional, and international artists. A key pillar of DCT Abu Dhabi public art initiative, the exhibition, curated by Reem Fadda and Alia Zaal Lootah under the theme Grounding Light explores the concept of grounding and self-enlightenment and the belief that light is a reflection of our inner selves, body, mind, nature and spirit.
In conjunction with the art installations, a schedule of public talks, workshops and performances is offered to visitors over the course of the exhibition. These endeavours highlight Public Art Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the emirate’s
public spaces through art, building upon a vibrant cultural legacy while looking forward to a future rich with creative potential.
Manar Abu Dhabi runs until 30th January 2024.
Source: Emirates News Agency