Launch of DIFC Art Integration Programme, showcased world-class sculptures and thought-provoking installations 

Dubai-UAE: 14 March 2017:  Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading international financial hub and destination for lifestyle, arts and culture, welcomed His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, in the company of his Excellency Essa Kazim, the Governor of DIFC, for the first edition of Art Nights in 2017. Under the theme of ‘Art Fresco’, the event welcomed over 3,000 visitors.

A highlight on the Dubai event calendar, Art Nights showcased artists from across the globe and launched the DIFC Art Integration Programme, with exhibits from world-renowned artists Sir Tony Cragg and Oliviero Rainaldi in the Gate Village and around the iconic Gate Building.

Raja Al Mazrouei, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Corporate Communications at DIFC Authority, said: “It is refreshing to once again see the positive turnout at yet another successful edition of Art Nights. The event is a very special platform for artists, art and culture enthusiasts to come together, and enjoy a truly unique evening.

“Under the theme of Art Fresco, the event was the perfect platform to give the community a taste of what is to come once Gate Avenue at DIFC is complete, with the latest addition to the district set to enhance DIFC’s standing as a leading business and lifestyle destination.”

Visitors were treated to stunning installations, including Cultivating Fruits, an ongoing project by Emirati artist Raudha Al Ghurair, which aims to create a dialogue between preconception and reality related to preservation and decay in a genetically modified world. 

Runners by Egyptian artist Ahmed Askalany explores the time-honored connection in his country between traditional materials and craftsmanship, with his work characterised by the preserved, mummy-style look of ancient times.

Highlights of the gallery collections included Art Sawa’s Avoca Avocado, a debut exhibition by acclaimed architect and designer Georges Mohasseb which searches for a fine balance between the material and immaterial.

Ayyam Gallery showcased the powerful work of Afshin Pirhashemi, which highlighted the Iranian artist’s depiction of bold women in an epic story of freedom and determination while the Farjam Foundation celebrated the life and visual legacy of renowned film director, photographer, painter and poet, Abbas Kiarostami.

Andakulova Gallery’s exhibition 66lbs, by Said Atabekov, reflected on the ancient nomadic tradition of Kokpar, a game played on horseback in Kazakhstan where two teams compete to carry a headless goat carcass across a goal line.

The community also enjoyed a wide selection of food on the night. Boutique Le Chocolat celebrated the art of chocolate making with some incredible sculptures, live demonstrations and complimentary treats dished out via a vintage tricycle, while Firebird’s gourmet interpretation of burger sliders and milkshakes went down a treat on the terrace complete with jukebox and classic American tunes. 

Dusty’s took visitors of Art Nights on an incredible journey across the world, with a culinary tour from China and Peru, to Japan and Naples, while Mercato hosted the exclusive media tour for the event, serving a special menu of wholesome Italian delicacies and screening classic Italian films.