Save these dates - Art Month in Dubai
Image via Art Dubai's Facebook page
It's March which means the art and culture crowd in Dubai is gearing itself for a very busy month.
I usually refer to March in Dubai as a month of art and culture on steroids, and all I can hope for is that I have the time and energy to attend everything I want.
Expect detailed posts for each event during the coming week. In the meantime, save these dates if you want to check out the art scene in Dubai (and Sharjah) this month. It's going to be hectic, but I am sure it will be fun.
13th March-13 May 2013 - Sharjah Biennial 11
The 11th edition of Sharjah Biennial will start on 13th March and will run till 13th May 2013. The opening week will feature an exciting line up of events including film screenings, performances, talks and tours. You can find more details here.
14th-24th March 2013 - SIKKA
This year's edition of SIKKA will see work by over 70 UAE-based artists, 14 multidisciplinary initiatives and collectives, plus an array of special projects, panel discussions, live music, performances and film screenings, taking over Bastakiya, recently renamed to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
I am happy and excited to say that The Culturist is one of the initiatives at this year's SIKKA, so expect a separate post about this.
18th-21st March 2013 - Design Days Dubai
Mutant Bench by Claudio Colucci, 2010, Wood, foam, polyurethane coated, 64 cm x 72 cm 146 cm
After a very successful debut last year, Design Days Dubai is back with a fair that will showcase collectible and limited edition furniture and design objects. There will also be some talks, film screenings and performances.
18th March 2013 - Art Night in Alserkal Avenue and DIFC
Image via Alserkal Avenue's Facebook page
The galleries in DIFC and Alserkal Avenue will host gallery openings on this night. It's a shame both venues are doing this at the same night, as it will be difficult to check out the galleries properly between 6pm-10pm in both venues.
I wish this Art Night would go on later than 10pm to give us enough time to visit the two venues. I for one will probably end up spending more time in Alserkal Avenue. The atmosphere is usually a lot more relaxed there.
20th-23rd March 2013 - Art Dubai
"Head" Series (No. 6) by Taiye Idahor, 2012 - Newspaper, film cartridge and acrylic paint on wood, 61x61cm. Courtesy of the artist.
The seventh edition of Art Dubai is packed with an extensive programme that includes commissioned projects and performances, artists' and curators' residencies, educational workshops, the unveiling of works by the winners of the annual Abraaj Capital Art Prize and the critically acclaimed Global Art Forum.
I really enjoyed last year's edition of Art Dubai, especially the Global Art Forum , so I can't wait for this year's edition.