Prominent UAE artist unveils his first solo exhibition in Venice

Abdullah Al Saadi solo exhibition Venice

 As anticipation builds for the 60th edition of the Venice Biennale, all eyes are on Abdullah Al Saadi, a prominent UAE artist, as he prepares to unveil his debut solo exhibition titled 'Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia.' Representing the UAE Pavilion at Venice, Al Saadi's showcase promises to be a mesmerizing exploration of contemporary art, rooted in the cultural heritage of the Emirates.

Curated by Tarek Abou El Fetouh, director of the Sharjah Art Foundation performance department, the exhibition marks the eighth participation of the UAE Pavilion at Venice. Al Saadi, known for his diverse body of work spanning painting, sculpture, performance, and photography, has been a key figure in the UAE contemporary art scene since the 1980s. His art, characterized by conceptual realism, offers a unique perspective on anthropological, historical, and environmental themes.

Nature, family history, heritage, travel, and human stories serve as primary inspirations for Abdullah Al Saadi's extensive body of work. Born in the rugged landscape of Madha and currently residing in Khorfakkan, he draws endless inspiration from the majestic mountains of the UAE. His artistic journey, spanning over four decades, reflects a deep connection with the natural world and a commitment to chronicling his experiences through various mediums.

In an exclusive interview, Al Saadi provides insights into his forthcoming exhibition and artistic practice. Titled 'Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia,' the exhibition focuses on artworks inspired by his wilderness journeys. Featuring a combination of drawings, paintings, sculptures, and other mediums, the showcase presents a comprehensive narrative of his artistic evolution.

The title 'Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia' reflects Al Saadi's exploration of memory and its relationship with history and landscape. Through his art, he seeks to reinterpret his surroundings and create a recollection of memories, landscapes, and histories. By presenting his works in Venice, Al Saadi aims to engage with audiences on both aesthetic and intellectual levels, inviting them to reflect on the interconnectedness of past, present, and future.

Al Saadi's artistic practice blurs the boundaries between different art forms, including drawing, painting, writing, and sculpture. His diaries, which serve as both inner and outer microcosms, play a significant role in his creative process, offering glimpses into his thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Drawing inspiration from Japanese aesthetics, Al Saadi's art reflects his experiences during his time in Japan, where he explored new mediums and techniques. His studio, filled with mementos from his childhood and collected objects, serves as a testament to his personal and cultural heritage, shaping the narrative of his artworks.

As Al Saadi prepares to showcase his work on an international stage, he remains committed to capturing the essence of his journeys and the passage of time through his art. Through 'Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia,' he invites audiences to embark on a visual and intellectual journey, exploring themes of memory, identity, and connection to the natural world.