On May 2nd, Ayyam Gallery DIFC will proudly present “Through The Looking Glass” an exhibition highlighting the recent work of Syrian artist Mouteea Murad. This upcoming event will showcase a new take on the complex geometric abstractions for which he has become known over the past few years. In 2009, Murad began successively labeling his canvases with the word “trial,” an indication of a continuous path of experimentation. Deeply engaged with the multifarious tradition of Islamic art, he approaches his work with a profound sense of spirituality and an acute understanding of its aesthetic values. Working from this foundation, he proceeds with contemporary experiments, identifying then adding to the modern breakthroughs that defined the formation of abstract art movements throughout the 20th century. Joining these seemingly disparate schools of art in a single composition, Murad elucidates how the origins of international abstraction lie within the essential principles of Islamic art.
Exhibition Islam, in partnership with the Global Commission for Introducing the Messenger and Muslims in Dialogue, are due to launch an Islamic exhibition at the Børsbygningen Center in Copenhagen, Denmark as part of The Arabian Journey — Carsten Niebuhr anniversary. The exhibition is due to be showcased at the highly exclusive Copenhagen venue at Børsen. Exhibition Islam is aiming to showcase an exclusive collection of historic Islamic manuscripts and artifacts, dating as far back as the 8th century. These collections will reflect the contributions that Muslim societies have made to the entire world and symbolizing the depth of the Islamic art, history and culture.
We live in a world where the golden arches are the most recognizable icons and a mere poke replaces a hug. This global system of intertwining networks creates a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it has eroded any sense of authenticity and individuality and created an ethic of mass consumption and social irresponsibility. On the other hand, it presents an unparalleled democratizing tool. This speed and ease of access in the recording and spreading of information has allowed for transparency and paved the way for bottom up change. Our globalized world dictates a predetermined range, within which we find socially acceptable ways of being and seeing. Through art and discourse, such notions are bravely challenged and questioned, hence the “Bravery of Being Out of Range.” This exhibition will feature works by James Clar, Manal Al Duwayan, Abdulnasser Gharem, Babak Golkar, Hassan Hajjaj, Pouran Jinchi, Ahmed Mater, Yara El Sherbini, Sami Al Turki and Ayman Yussri.
On May 20, Ayyam Auctions will hold its eighth public sale, this year’s first installment of the Young Collectors Auction. Featuring 65 lots that represent established and emerging Arab and Iranian artists, this forthcoming event will be organized in a casual setting that is geared towards budding art aficionados. Since 2009, the biannual Young Collectors Auction has proven to be a great success among new collectors, attracting buyers from across the Middle East. Seasoned patrons have also been drawn to its unique format, which offers some of the biggest names in regional art at affordable prices. Attendees are encouraged to view available lots prior to the evening sale, during the auction’s preview period.
Opening on May 5, “Daily Myths” will present a new series of works by the young Syrian artist Nihad Al Turk. Expanding the symbolist themes that dominated his previous canvases, Al Turk builds upon a complex system of symbols and imagery, one that is driven by anthropomorphic representations that speak of the inherent flaws of mankind.
