Until the 26th of April, 2024, the Manarat Al Saadiyat art centre in Abu Dhabi is hosting Rooted: Sustainability – an Art Perspective, a group exhibition including 15 local creatives and those from other countries which aims to foster a deeper understanding of sustainability in art. Presenting a full range of art pieces — from photos to installations — the show encourages visitors to think about their impact on the environment and appreciate the interconnectedness between art, nature, and human existence.
The exhibited works reflect how their creators take different approaches to depicting their surroundings. Some choose to address ecological issues and raise awareness, while others delve into their personal experiences and emotional connections in relation to their surroundings. The artists have incorporated natural materials into their works on view not only for their aesthetic qualities but also to establish a tangible connection with nature. Thus, they add an element of authenticity and harmony with the world of nature.
Among the creatives taking part in the show is, for example, established Emirati artist Azza Al Qubaisi. She is represented by her Dome Path installation inspired by palm tree branches, a material that defined UAE’s pre-oil era existence, and integrated with stainless steel. The artwork symbolises a deep connection to the Emirates’ past. Speaking about this art piece, Al Qubaisi said that using the palm branches, she pays tribute to the country’s cultural heritage.
Photographer and anthropologist Noora Al Neyadi presents the photographs she took during an ethnographic expedition through Chad and southern Libya documenting various communities and their connections with their environments. Meanwhile, Ali bin Thalith, an award-winning documentary film photographer, showcases his underwater photos. Highlighting the beauty of marine habitats, they bring attention to the importance of environmental conservation.
In addition, the show features a segment on American artist, photographer, and film producer Chris Jordan’s work. Curated by Nezar Andary, it displays his Albatross (2017) (a film dedicated to the issue of ocean plastic pollution). The section also includes a collaboration with the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, featuring three winners from the photo competition Capturing the Invisible.
Apart from the artists mentioned above, the list of participants includes Amna Almansoori, Maitha Al Omaira, Maitha Bughanoum, Maktoum Al Maktoum, Michael Rice, Mohamed Yousif, Mostafa Brayez, Salmah Almansouri, Sara Al Haddad, Shamsa Al Omaira, and Vidhyaa Chandramohan.
To get more information about Rooted: Sustainability – an Art Perspective, please visit the exhibition’s official web page.
You might also be interested in visiting At the Edge of Land at Hayy Jameel and looking at Tarabot: Weaving a Living Forum.
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