The Louvre of Abu Dhabi is a “sanctuary” to great works of art but is also a work of art itself, one of the world’s urban wonders. It is fascinating architectural and engineering feat designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. Part of its uniqueness comes from the fact that it rises up off the island of Saadiyat and is surrounded by the waters of the Persian Gulf. And it is precisely to allow people to appreciate and admire the structure to its fullest that it is possible to tour around the museum in a kayak. Every day, except Monday, between 5 and 7 pm, it is possible to reserve a tour and paddle around this landmark, the centrepiece of an entire neighbourhood for an hour. A “city-museum” on the sea, made up of 55 different architectural structures, inspired by the “medina” and the low-rising homes typical of Arab architecture, especially one of its most emblematic elements - the dome. A double dome of 180 metres in diameter which knowingly plays with lights and shadow, creating, both day and night, a charming effect known as a “rain of light”. At certain times of the year, it is also possible to take the kayak tour at sunrise but only on Friday and Saturday, but also on full-moon nights as well.
Aisha Alabbar brings together three artists Asma Khoory, Taqwa Al Naqbi and Sultan Al Remeithi for an exhibition dedicated to “free time”. An exhibition that offers an overview of their practices, highlighting the different perspectives and approaches that characterize the contemporary artistic landscape of the Emirates.
Adrian Pepe works with the wool of Awassi sheep, an ancient breed raised in Mesopotamia for over 5.000 years. A material that reveals an ecosystem and describes the process of transformation of a fleece - from wool, parasites, insects and plant matter - into a "canvas" for the artist.