World Art Dubai concludes on a high note today, as the fair’s 120-strong international delegation of solo artists and galleries celebrated creative diversity at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

With artists from more than 20 countries across a 2,000-strong collection of diverse works on display at the region’s most accessible and affordable art fair, the event showcased an eclectic programme of live features, interactive workshops and successful new activations which proved a hit with visitors and exhibitors alike.

Dubai’s first international event to restart the exhibition season, World Art Dubai 2020 attracted artists and visitors from across the globe, underlining the Emirate’s thriving art community. A unique platform for collectors and first-time buyers of affordable and original art, this year’s event overcame adversity to bring creative minds together under its theme, ‘Free Your Mind’.

With artists and galleries reporting big sales throughout the fair, participants agreed the regional art market is witnessing an increased demand for contemporary works.

First time UAE exhibitor and artist Mouza Al Mansoori was particularly happy with her participation: “I’ve sold 17 pieces so far and visitor reception has been great with amazing positive feedback and good energy. The standard has been really high, I’m also planning to buy some pieces myself.

“The health and safety rules were communicated clearly and well executed. World Art Dubai has proven to be a safe and highly successful event and a great start to the season,” she added.

JuliaSmolenkova, artist from Russia commented, “this is my third time at World Art Dubai, I love exhibiting here as it offers me the chance to meet with collectors and artists from around the world. I sold 15 pieces so far to brand-new collectors, which I’m really pleased about.”

Appetite for art

Debuting a dedicated area featuring artworks inspired by the pandemic, the Creativity Unmasked collection featured dozens of original artworks as local and international artists explored the emotional narratives of recent months.

“The Creativity Unmasked area really caught my eye, particularly the Manasse piece of Audrey Hepburn, which I bought. I fell in love with the colour of it, the talent and the tribute to this challenging year,” Kat Kearsey, a British national, living in Dubai, said. “I’m so happy I could help support a local artist and visiting World Art Dubai made me remember why I live in Dubai and why it’s so important to celebrate the beauty in life.”

Local art in the spotlight

With international artist representation accounting for more than 40 per cent of fair talent, this year’s show also shone the light on local art with works by local galleries and artists hailing the true spirit of the nation.

A first-time exhibitor at World Art Dubai, AzeizahAlHassani witnessed the rippling effects of World Art Dubai: “I am a petroleum engineer by day, and an artist by night. Arts for me is a passion and being here at World Art Dubai is a great honour as it has given me the opportunity to showcase my work and to translate my message and imagination to true art fans. This is my first exhibition in Dubai; however, I’ll make sure to be part of this successful show every year.”

Art performances

With a wide programme of art, workshops and performances for all ages, visitors also enjoyed a range of inspiring art performances including Wearable Art Fashion Shows on the fair’s dedicated catwalk. Breaking the boundaries of the arts industry through her New Shabutsu (Japanese Ink Painting) Mind-reflection was Eisui, hailing from Japan. Her engaging workshops, mesmerised visitors and fellow artists.

“Shabutsu is an ancient practice with a more than 2,000-year history,” Eisui said. “There aren’t many people who are trained in this practice so I’m very excited to introduce it to World Art Dubai visitors. The audience surprised me with how receptive and engaged they were.”