The region's largest affordable retail art fair returns with contemporary art from all over the world. World Art Dubai believes in making art accessible for private collectors, connoisseurs, corporate buyers and first time buyers in search for diverse, affordable and original art under one roof.
World Art Dubai hosts an impressive collection of more than 3,000 artworks from renowned galleries and solo artists from over 30 countries starting from just $100 onwards. Interview with Andrew Wingrove, World Art Dubai Show Director
World Art Dubai is celebrating its 5th year in 2019. How has the fair developed since its first edition?
Compared to 2015, the primary development has been the speed at which World Art Dubai has established a dynamic reputation locally, regionally and internationally. World Art Dubai has also become an integral part of Dubai Art season over the course of the past five years, cementing its standing as the city’s core avenue to access and purchase affordable local and international art.
Why do you support affordable art?
Affordable art is the DNA of World Art Dubai and we strive to ensure the exhibition presents affordable art for every type of collector. We aim to curate a collection that has something to suit all tastes, and most importantly, all budgets.
Our emphasis on affordable art also supports new and emerging talent in the local and international arena. Emerging artists help shape future trends but can, occasionally, be overlooked in the wider industry. World Art Dubai aims to provide emerging artists with a tailored platform.
In that vein, our ‘Art For Every Wall’ section of the show is back in 2019. The feature is tailormade to showcase mediums at truly affordable prices with World Art Dubai curators selecting work from more than 45 artists. Prices start from as little as AED 100 and no work in the ‘Art For Every Wall’ section is priced above AED 3,000.
What can visitors expect from World Art Dubai 2019?
The 2019 show boasts a collection of 150 galleries and artists from more than 30 countries displaying more than 3,000 artworks. Pieces will include abstract paintings, fluid painting, cubism-inspired pieces, mixed media and sculptures, with prices that range from AED100 to AED75,000.
It’s vital to remember that World Art Dubai isn’t only an art sale. Visitors can expect a holistic schedule of engaging experiences designed to keep all members of the family entertained. On top of the retail element, informative talks and interactive demonstrations led by top local and international artists will dissect current art trends. This knowledge exchange focus is aimed at artists, consumers and industry specialists.
World Art Dubai will also collaborate with Rove Hotels to host the inaugural Emerging Artists Competition and Exhibition this year - further evidence of our drive to promote emerging artists. Designed for up-and-coming artists aged 18 years or above, the competition is being held under the theme ‘My Culture, My Neighbourhood, My Community’ and winners will have their work displayed across the portfolio of Rove Hotels, as well as the Rove Café - a prominent new feature at this year’s event.
What do the artworks featured in this edition reveal about current trends in the UAE and Middle East?
The artworks featured in this edition demonstrate diversity, which is arguably one of the best words to describe the UAE. There are a range of artists mixing styles this year, whether it’s Muna Balfaqeeh with her abstract twist on traditional Arabic calligraphy, or Yana Rusnak, who depicts a fusion of figurative and abstract styles through painting and photography.
Another trend predicted to have a huge presence at this year’s World Art Dubai is the sustainable art movement. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of their carbon footprint, and this is inspiring numerous artists to source sustainable materials such as recycled parts. Various works also explore the concept of asking viewers to consider their own socio-political decisions in the wider context of sustainability. An example is Robert Kratz, whose concerns over planet pollution have spurred his “Under Water, Under The Moon” collection, which will be displayed at this year’s fair.
Do you have any advice for new collectors attending the fair?
My advice to new collectors would be to take your time, experience all aspects and areas of the show, and don’t forget to enjoy yourself! There’s a lot going on at World Art Dubai, from the variety of art styles on offer, to the expert talks, live demonstrations, award ceremonies and other exciting features.
It also could be argued that new collectors often go with what’s ‘popular’ or ‘trendy’, but this is not necessarily what makes them happy. Art is very personal. It lives in the eye of the beholder, so always focus on your own happiness, creativity and preferences – not what others tell you to like.
