The region continues to dazzle us with an array of art shows, offering something for every art enthusiast, so as usual, we present our top 10 list of exhibitions to attend in February. Whether you are intrigued by conceptual sculptures or inspired by nature-themed art, these exhibits promise unforgettable experiences.
1. Post-Impressionism: Beyond Appearances
Today is the final day of this remarkable exhibition organised by the Louvre Abu Dhabi in collaboration with the Musée d’Orsay of Paris. Spanning the transformative Post-Impressionist period from 1886 to 1905, the show features about 100 iconic works by masters like Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, Henri-Edmond Cross, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. The exhibition will be open until 9 February 2025.
2. The Paradox of Imaginary Objects by Behdad Lahooti
On display at XVA Gallery until 13 February 2025, this solo show by renowned Iranian artist Behdad Lahooti displays stunning metal sculptures of fruits, vegetables, and plants. Curated by Mohammadreza Shahrokhinejad, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the relationship between physical objects and the mental images they evoke.
3. Limen: Thresholds by Mohamed Monaiseer
Tabari Artspace presents Limen: Thresholds, Egyptian artist Mohamed Monaiseer’s intriguing solo exhibition curated by Hannah Elsisi. Running through 17 February 2025, the show delves into themes of liminality and transformation, which resonates with Monaiseer’s investigation of barzakh, a concept in Islamic theology representing a space of in-betweenness.
4. … I kept holding by Maitha Hamdan
Until 21 February 2025, Tashkeel is hosting a solo exhibition by Emirati conceptual artist Maitha Hamdan titled “… I kept holding”, which marks the end of her participation in the Tashkeel Critical Practice Programme (CPP). The show examines societal norms and human experiences through the symbolic use of the colour red and the medium of wax.
5. The Sublime Nature of Being at ICD Brookfield Place
On display at ICD Brookfield Place until 22 February 2025, this immersive exhibition is curated and produced by Indian artist Ambika Hinduja Macker. Inspired by the concept of the sublime, it features works by 16 contemporary artists, including Janaina Mello, Annette Townsend, and Satya Hinduja, and offers a multi-sensory experience.
6. Ektashif: Morocco at MIA
Ektashif: Morocco, an exhibition arranged by the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), offers visitors to explore Morocco’s artistic legacy through the eyes of several Qatari creatives, including Hamad Al-Mohammed, Fatima Al-Sharshani, Abdulhadi Al-Marri, Dana Al Mulla, and Aljazi Almaadeed. After an educational trip to Marrakesh, the artists drew inspiration from Morocco’s cultural heritage and Islamic architecture, producing stunning works that capture the country’s beauty. The exhibition will end on 26 February 2025.
7. Native: Plants in the UAE
Meanwhile, the Cultural Foundation is hosting Native: Plants in the UAE, an exhibition which highlights the importance of native Emirati flora and their ecological significance. Featuring works by 19 artists, it offers an insightful look into the unique living conditions of these plants and trees. The show will remain open until 8 March 2025.
8. Vestiges by Athar Jaber
Ayyam Gallery presents a compelling solo exhibition by Italian artist Athar Jaber, exploring the relationship between the human body and external forces. Through sculptures and drawings, the artist portrays the body as broken, fragmented, and vulnerable. One is welcome to admire Jaber’s art pieces until 1 April 2025.
9. Between the Tides: A Gulf Quinquennial
This landmark group exhibition at the NYUAD Art Gallery marks the first edition of a recurring event held every five years. The show explores the evolving artistic landscape of the GCC, featuring 21 artists and collectives from the region, such as Alia Ahmad, Sophia Al Maria, Afra Al Dhaheri, and Vikram Divecha, to name a few. The showcase will be open to the public until 20 April 2025.
10. Reflections & Inspirations from Emirati Heritage
In partnership with the University of Sharjah’s College of Fine Arts and Design, the Sharjah Museums Authority presents this thought-provoking collective exhibition. Students’ artworks on view creatively interpret elements of Emirati heritage, blending tradition with modern perspectives. The show will end on 15 April 2024.
In addition, you might be interested in visiting I’ve Got to Know You Now We May Never Meet Again, Nigerian artist Sola Olulode’s solo exhibition.
