New art centre celebrates UAE talent

The works of 28 artists are being showcased as part of an exhibition of UAE art in Al Ain's Al Qattara Arts Centre.

Noor al Suwaidi is among artists taking part in the exhibition. Micaela Colace for The National

AL AIN // Four generations of Emirati artists explored views of culture and heritage through their paintings at the launch of a new art centre yesterday.

Twenty eight artists, who rose to prominence over the last four decades, showcased their abstract works as part of the exhibition of UAE art at the Al Qattara Arts Centre.

The facility, which was launched by Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region of the Abu Dhabi emirate, aims to serve as an educational and artistic hub for Emirati talent.

"This exhibition is unique in the sense that it combines the work of early artists with modern ones," said Najat Makki, one of the nation's most celebrated artists.

"It is interesting to see the understanding of modern artists of culture and how they use technology and science to showcase it."

Abstract art has come a long way since it emerged on the UAE art scene in the 1970s.

"Before people used to illustrate heritage through illustrations of popular icons such as the dallah, but now in this age we use symbols because everything is moving fast, even the media," she said.

"There is no time to read a whole line, you need to illustrate your ideas with a symbol or a colour."

The centre, which will offer courses starting in May this year, is equipped with the latest technologies, advanced studios and facilities for teaching and developing art skills.

Courses on offer will include photography, music, art crafting, pottery, computer classes and calligraphy.