SAUDI ARABIA

25 Saudi, Gulf, European artists to enrich ‘Al’Obour’ experience

January 28, 2019



The main theme of the exhibition is to question the nature of crossing through its different manifestations, says the exhibition’s curator.
The main theme of the exhibition is to question the nature of crossing through its different manifestations, says the exhibition’s curator.

JEDDAH — The Saudi Art Council gears up to launch Al’Obour (The Crossing), a multigenerational aesthetic experience that will be opened to the public on Feb. 6 at the Gold Moor Mall in Jeddah.

Dr. Effat Fadag, the exhibition’s curator, said the three-month artistic event would showcase the works of three generations of contemporary artists in the Kingdom in an attempt to build bridges of communication and open dialogue between them.

The exhibition will feature entries of more than 25 Arab and international artists from across Europe and the Middle East. “This year’s edition will include lectures, workshops and panel discussions, as well as discovery trips to the historical area of Jeddah,” Dr. Fadag explained.

She pointed out that the exhibition would seek to assimilate modern technology in creating an interactive and immersive experience inspired by the concept of “crossing”.

Explaining the title of the exhibition, Dr. Fadag said, “The main theme of the exhibition is to question the nature of crossing through its different manifestations. It answers the questions: How do we cross? Is it a physical or metaphysical experience? What are the different socio-cultural classes from which we can pass?”

She concluded by saying that the exhibition will expand to the historic area of Jeddah to address the concept of traditional “myths and legends” from a contemporary perspective.

“Our partnership with the Saudi Art Council provides our clients with access and insight into the compelling world of contemporary art,” said Ali Janoudi, head WM central and eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa at UBS and vice chairman of the board of UBS Saudi Arabia. “Art can help us imagine a future of limitless potential, and channel fresh ideas in the direction of positive, sustainable growth”.

Alessandro Maffi, Van Cleef & Arpels managing director for the Middle East and India, said, “Our participation in this year’s exhibition further highlights the Maison’s legitimacy in supporting the art and design scene of Saudi Arabia. Al’Obour Exhibition is a unique platform and a significant event that allows us to express the Maison’s exceptional high jewelry know-how and share our stories with all.”

Al’Obour Exhibition is made possible by the support and sponsorship of Al-Mansouria Foundation, UBS, Van Cleef & Arpels, Midwam, Tamer Group, BWM Mohammed Yousef Naghi Motors, Quintessentially, German Consulate in Jeddah, French Consulate in Jeddah, Al-Kabli Holding, Hilton Hotel, Medd Coffee, Spark and Blank Studio. — SG

Contemporary arts exhibition set to open in Jeddah on Feb. 6


January 28, 2019
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