United Arab Emirates 2024
The exhibition proposes to look at Al Saadi creative process in relation to the practices of Arab poets centuries ago.
Title: Abdullah Al Saadi: Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia
Commissioner: Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation, Ministry of Culture
Curator: Tarek Abou El Fetouh
Artist: Abdullah Al Saadi
This solo exhibition unveils the visionary works of Al Saadi through eight bodies of work inspired by his wilderness journeys, the artist invites viewers to explore his singular artistic world. Drawing parallels between Al Saadi’s creative process and the traditions of ancient Arab poets, the exhibition delves into the profound connection between nature and artistic inspiration.
Al Saadi starts to draw, paint, or write during his journeys once he feels immersed in nature. Similarly, classical Arab poets described this immersion as the process leading up to the composition of their poems.
In a re-enactment of the artist’s studio rituals, performers engage with guests, revealing concealed works while sharing stories and insights into Al Saadi’s journeys and the collective memory he invokes.
VENUE:
Arsenale
OPENING TIMES:
Apr 20 – Sept 25 Tue – Sun, 11am – 7pm
Sept 27 – Nov 24 Tue – Sun, 10am – 6pm
