Exclusive Open House Event at Cala Jondal Hideaway: A Fusion of Art and Luxury

Exclusive Open House Event at Cala Jondal Hideaway: A Fusion of Art and Luxury

Wednesday was an extraordinary day for art and luxury enthusiasts as Lisa Oomes hosted an exclusive open house along side Black Book Ibiza the event took place at the stunning Cala Jondal Hideaway in Ibiza. This unique gathering offered a rare opportunity to explore a magnificent villa while enjoying drinks, nibbles, and high-end art by the renowned artist Bran.

Set within the unparalleled tranquillity of San Josep, the Cala Jondal Hideaway spanned an impressive 50,000 sqm hilltop estate overlooking the breathtaking bay of Cala Jondal, Cap des Falco, and Formentera. The villa’s proximity to famous beach clubs and restaurants like Blue Marlin Ibiza, Yemanjá, Tropicana, and Casa Jondal added to its allure, being just five minutes away.

Designed by Rolf Blakstad, the luxurious seven-bedroom house, including two guest houses, masterfully blended Ibizan traditions with contemporary functionality, modern technology, and exquisite taste. The dramatic 400 sqm swimming pool, offering both sunrise and sunset views, set the perfect scene for this exclusive event. The gardens, equipped with state-of-the-art “Sonos” and “Kling & Freitag” sound systems, were ideal for hosting gatherings of any size, ensuring an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication.

 

 
Exclusive Open House Event at Cala Jondal Hideaway: A Fusion of Art and Luxury

Guests enjoyed total privacy and security with 24-hour camera surveillance and on-site security, allowing them to fully immerse in the beauty and luxury of the surroundings. The villa’s spacious interiors were adorned with modern yet organic furnishings, creating a harmonious balance between comfort and style. The outdoor area, with its large pool, heated jacuzzi, gym, and cinema room that could host up to 50 persons, offered an unmatched level of extravagance.

The event showcased exclusive art pieces by artist Bran, an ex-soldier now turned renowned artist and philanthropist whose narrative focuses on the environment and human rights. Bran’s pieces not only exhibited artistic excellence but also communicated a powerful message about environmental conservation. His dedication to philanthropy and the environment was evident in his controversial works featuring AK-47s and butterflies, making this event a must-attend for art collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate art with a purpose. The works were curated by Alex from Black Book, who wonderfully combined art and the surroundings together in great harmony.

 

 
 
Artist Bran in Ibiza
Artist Bran in Ibiza

This villa was not only a haven for relaxation but also a prime location for hosting visitors, ensuring everyone could enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Cala Jondal in comfort and style. The en-suite bedrooms and two guesthouses provided ideal accommodations for families or groups of friends seeking a luxurious and memorable vacation in Ibiza.

The Cala Jondal Hideaway open house event was an unforgettable blend of art and luxury. It was more than just an event; it was an experience of a lifetime. Attendees indulged in opulence and marveled at the exquisite, environmentally-themed art pieces by Bran in a setting that epitomized grandeur and sophistication.

New Book Explores Saudi Arabia’s Emerging Art Scene Amid Vision 2030 Reforms

In the wake of the pandemic, Saudi Arabia has become a hotbed for public art projects, biennials, and events like Desert X, attracting renowned curators such as Iwona Blazwick, Phil Tinari, Neville Wakefield, and Ute Meta Bauer. A new book by Rebecca Anne Proctor and Alia Al-Senussi delves into this burgeoning art scene, offering insights into the changes taking place.

At the core of this transformation is Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz’s Vision 2030 reform agenda. Known as MBS, the Crown Prince aims to diversify the country’s economy and society away from its reliance on oil by investing in sports, arts, and other appealing sectors. While MBS is a controversial figure, particularly for his involvement in human rights abuses, this book presents him as a driving force for cultural and economic modernization in Saudi Arabia.

Art Dubai Online

One of MBS’s ambitious projects is The Line, a 170km-long linear city designed to foster freedom and innovation. This concept draws comparisons to the Italian collective Superstudio’s Continuous Monument, which critiqued the monotony of capitalism. However, in Saudi Arabia, The Line symbolizes a new era of progress and openness.

The authors of the book highlight the irony in Western criticisms of Saudi Arabia’s art policies. These criticisms often ignore the fact that many Western institutions also treat art as an investment, particularly in times of financial austerity.

However, the book has its limitations. It does not fully represent the voices of those opposed to the Vision 2030 scheme. While dissent is occasionally acknowledged, it is not given a significant platform. Instead, the book features anonymous critiques from Art Basel and commentary from curators already working within the Saudi framework.

A comparative study within the book looks at regional competitors like Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, ultimately concluding that Saudi Arabia is distinct due to its focus on local artists and cultural resources. However, the brief chapter on Saudi’s contemporary art history does not provide enough depth to substantiate this claim fully.

Despite its shortcomings, this publication provides a glimpse into the evolving art scene in Saudi Arabia, though it falls short of academic rigor expected from a series under the auspices of the Sotheby’s Institute of Art.

Art in Saudi Arabia: A New Creative Economy? by Rebecca Anne Proctor with Alia Al-Senussi. Lund Humphries in association with Sotheby’s Institute of Art, £19.99 (hardcover).

Israel-Hamas Conflict Took Center Stage at Art Dubai

At the 17th edition of Art Dubai, the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict is a prominent theme, with many galleries using the platform to highlight Palestinian art. This year’s fair, running until 3 March, features a strong focus on the Global South, enabling galleries to bring attention to the crisis in Palestine, especially Gaza.

During the fair’s opening press conference on 28 February, Shumon Basar, director of Art Dubai’s Global Art Forum, referenced an Israeli military order from 2009 that prohibits Palestinians from collecting rainwater, verified by Amnesty International and the United Nations. Basar is guiding discussions on the ecological impact of the Israeli occupation of Palestine, one of several efforts at Art Dubai to foreground the ongoing crisis. The Gaza Ministry of Health reports that over 30,000 people have been killed in Gaza in the past five months following Hamas’s 7 October attacks in Israel, which resulted in around 1,200 deaths and 253 hostages.

Art Dubai Online - Conflict theme at Art Dubai

Pablo del Val, Art Dubai’s artistic director, emphasized that “Palestine has been part of Art Dubai’s DNA since day one.” The Art Dubai Group (ADG) will donate 25% of pre-fair ticket sales to the Emirates Red Crescent to support vulnerable communities, following a similar pledge for its Downtown Design fair in October 2023.

Two Palestinian galleries are participating this year: Zawyeh Gallery, with locations in Ramallah and Dubai, and Gallery One from Ramallah. Zawyeh Gallery features works by three Palestinian artists, including Khaled Hourani’s prints of watermelons, a symbol of Palestinian resistance. Seven of these prints, priced at $2,800 each, sold by the end of the second VIP day.

Saher Nassar, a Gaza-born, Dubai-based artist, presents cartoon-like prints depicting harsh scenes like land watered with blood, symbolizing the destruction of Palestinian youth. His family home in Gaza was destroyed in recent bombings, and shipping art back to Palestine is challenging due to the risk of damage by Israeli forces.

Samar Martha, owner of Gallery One, faced a 24-hour journey with multiple checkpoints to bring her artworks to the fair. Her gallery features glass sculptures, videos, and prints by Manal Mahamid, including a silk screen work depicting 48 desert cactuses surrounded by the names of villages destroyed in 1948 during the Nakba. Despite challenges, the gallery has made sales to collectors from Lebanon, Britain, and the UAE, providing a crucial lifeline as art buying in Ramallah has stalled due to the war.

Art Dubai Online

The Third Line in Dubai, directed by Sunny Rahbar, also highlights Palestinian resistance through works like Tarek Al-Ghoussein’s self-portrait wearing a keffiyeh. Other non-Palestinian galleries also address the Gaza conflict, such as Athr from Jeddah, featuring Saudi-Palestinian artist Ayman Daydban’s works that incorporate the Palestinian flag.

Nika Project Space showcases a large ceramic kitchen installation by Palestinian artist Mirna Bamieh, priced at €150,000, while Vadehra Gallery from New Delhi presents paintings by Praneet Soi juxtaposing playgrounds with Gazan landscapes. Chemould Prescott Road from Mumbai brings textile works by Dana Awartani, depicting destroyed heritage sites in Gaza, with two pieces sold to Emirati collectors for $21,000 each.

Despite mounting censorship in addressing the Gaza conflict in the US and Europe, Art Dubai provides a platform for Palestinian voices. Tagreed Darghouth’s paintings at Tabari Art Space depict olive trees felled by Israeli forces, reflecting the gallery’s commitment to Palestinian representation amid increased cancellations of Palestinian artist shows overseas.

Art Dubai’s approach aligns with its mission to spotlight underrepresented geographies. Artistic director Pablo del Val has steered the fair’s focus away from the West to reflect Dubai’s diversity. This year’s fair attracts high-profile visitors due to concurrent art events in the Gulf, though sales have been slow but promising. Notable sales include El Anatsui’s sculpture for $600,000 and Lynda Benglis’s sculpture for €160,000.

Dealers note an increase in sales of Palestinian-focused art as collectors seek to support artists affected by the crisis. Academic Reema Salha Fadda, speaking at Art Dubai, emphasized the importance of showing images of devastation as a form of resistance, urging the art world to confront uncomfortable truths.


 

Artist Bran Unveils Provocative New Art Piece “Skorpion”

Renowned artist Bran is set to release his latest masterwork, “Skorpion,” a thought-provoking blend of artistry and social commentary. The piece will be available for sale tomorrow, offering a singular, unparalleled opportunity for collectors, galleries, and art enthusiasts to own a work that poignantly addresses the profound issues of capitalism and conflict.

SKORPION by Artist Bran
Skorpion VZ 61 Sub Machine Gun before the transformation

“Skorpion” features a real, deactivated Skorpion VZ 61 Sub Machine Gun, meticulously transformed into a striking visual statement. Symondson has enrobed the entire weapon in genuine American dollar bills, symbolizing the staggering amounts of money spent on warfare and the destructive nature of human greed. The gun is artfully mounted on a base, from which origami butterflies, crafted from Iraqi, Afghanistan and American currency, appear to be shooting out, creating a powerful juxtaposition of violence and the fragility of nature. 

SKORPION by Artist Bran
Transformed - Skorpion - Wall-mount Art Piece using real currency from USA, Iraq,
Artist Bran with Dana White in Las Vegas
Bran with Dana White at the UFC HQ in Las Vegas

This singular piece, 1 of 1 edition unique in the world, speaks volumes about the cyclical nature of human folly. The dollar-bill-covered gun represents the perpetual investment in conflict, while the delicate butterflies symbolize Mother Nature’s attempts to reclaim her domain. However, they are tragically caught in the crossfire of human avarice, embodying the ongoing struggle between ecological preservation and the relentless drive for profit. “Skorpion” poignantly captures the relentless sting of war, it reflects on how civilians and the environment are continuously stung by the insatiable greed driving conflict.
Bran’s “Skorpion” is more than just a visual feast; it is a narrative of our times. It challenges viewers to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the repeated mistakes of humanity. The piece is a stark reminder of the cost of war—not just in monetary terms but in the irreparable damage to our planet.

Bran’s work has been collected by notable figures worldwide, including the Prince of Bahrain, Elton John, and UFC’s Dana White.

Skorpion by Artist Bran

For collectors and enthusiasts, “Skorpion” represents a rare chance to acquire a work that is not only aesthetically compelling but also rich with meaning and relevance. Its availability marks a significant event in the art world, underscoring Bran’s reputation once again for merging bold artistic vision with critical societal themes.
As this unique piece is released tomorrow, it is expected to attract significant interest from those who appreciate art that makes a statement. “Skorpion” is not just a conversation starter; it is a clarion call for reflection and change.
Those interested in exploring this powerful narrative further or considering the acquisition of “Skorpion” should not miss this extraordinary opportunity. Bran’s latest creation is poised to become a seminal piece in contemporary art, destined to be cherished by its fortunate owner as a beacon of both artistic brilliance and poignant commentary.

For more information please contact Lulu Nassar : [email protected]

For sales and reservations please contact Chloe Spencer: [email protected]

Fine Art Investing Trends In The Middle East

InwestCo CEO Aaron Dabbaghzadeh Highlights Surge in Fine Art Investments by Middle Eastern Investors

Aaron Dabbaghzadeh, InwestCo Founder & CEO ART DUBAI ONLINE

The Middle East has undergone a significant cultural revival in recent years, becoming a major player in the fine art market. According to Forbes Middle East, the first quarter of 2023 saw a “wave of temporary art exhibitions, talent, and investors convening in the region.”

InwestCo, a family office with a strong presence in the United Arab Emirates, has observed a growing trend toward investments in alternative assets, especially fine art. This trend reflects the insights gained from advising numerous Middle Eastern investors, highlighting the importance of supporting clients in navigating the art investment space.

 

Aaron Dabbaghzadeh, InwestCo Founder & CEO ART DUBAI ONLINE

Embracing Diversification

With the region diversifying beyond oil and gas, many investors are exploring new avenues for portfolio diversification. This strategy spans various sectors such as real estate, technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and the art market. Diversification reduces reliance on a single sector, enhancing financial resilience and adaptability to market changes.

Trends in Fine Art Investment

One notable example of fine art investment in the Middle East is the 2017 acquisition of Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi” by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This purchase signifies a shift away from traditional assets, highlighting the growing significance of fine art in the region’s financial landscape.

The influence of the Middle East in the art market is evident in major auction houses. For instance, Sotheby’s Middle Eastern Art department set records for three Egyptian artists during the March 2022 20th Century Art/Middle East sale. These record-setting works included Seif Wanly’s “Untitled” oil panel, Abdel Badie Abdel Hay’s sculpture “Mobaghata,” and Hamed Abdalla’s self-taught oil painting “Ville Arab.”

Additionally, the establishment of major cultural institutions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi underscores the transformative power of art in fostering global connections and cross-cultural dialogue.

 

Art Dubai Online - Investment MiddleEast

Implications for Family Offices

The trend of increasing fine art expenditures is expected to continue. Investing in fine art offers more than aesthetic pleasure; it provides financial opportunities and cultural enrichment. By investing in artworks, investors can support artists, endorse cultural achievements, and capture the essence of their time.

However, optimizing the value of such investments requires careful consideration. For family offices guiding investors through the fine art market, it is crucial to educate them on the risks and rewards, conduct thorough due diligence, and advocate for market transparency.

Challenges such as lengthy liquidation times necessitate careful planning for investors needing quick access to funds. Factors like subjective valuation, transaction costs, market volatility, and preservation expenses highlight the importance of meticulous research and strategic planning.

Educating clients on the factors affecting artwork value, such as scarcity, is also essential. Scarcity can arise from limited editions, unique works, low production output, infrequent market appearances, and the exclusivity of exhibitions. Economic prosperity can also drive demand, increasing competition and value. Additionally, artisanal craftsmanship and the use of rare materials can enhance an artwork’s intrinsic value.

A comprehensive strategy combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience is vital when advising clients on fine art investments. This can include workshops, curated gallery tours, real-life case studies, market trend updates, and guidance on legal and tax matters.

Ultimately, the vast opportunities for fine art investments in the Middle East represent a blend of tradition, innovation, and visionary financial decision-making. While art investments can offer both fulfillment and financial returns, a prudent approach is essential. As Aaron Dabbaghzadeh’s father wisely said, “Invest in assets that endure, and keep them right in front of your eyes.”

The information provided here is not investment, tax, or financial advice. Please consult with a licensed professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Top 11 Art Shows in Dubai 2024

Art Dubai Online

A Slice of Culture in the City This Summer

Lulu Nassar – May 29, 2024

Dubai is bustling with artistic energy, featuring a wide array of art galleries and educational exhibitions. If you have an appreciation for art, you’ll be excited to learn about the diverse art events happening in Dubai over the coming months. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or a group outing, make sure to add these 2024 Dubai art festivals and exhibitions to your calendar.

Arte Museum Dubai

Located in the iconic Dubai Mall, Arte Museum Dubai offers a fully immersive art experience right across from Galeries Lafayette. “Eternal Nature” spans 30,000 square feet of digital art, with 14 zones that immerse visitors in various aspects of the natural world through advanced digital technology. The combination of music, lights, and projections makes this a captivating experience.

Tickets from Dhs149. Ongoing. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, dubaiartemuseum.com.

Art Dubai Online

At the Edge of Land by Various Artists

The Jameel Arts Centre presents an exhibition that delves into the intricate connections between landscapes and trade routes. Featuring works from the Jameel Art Collections and international artists like Abbas Akhavan and Jananne Al-Ani, this exhibition, curated by Lucas Morin, originated at Hayy Arts, Jeddah. It highlights the maritime trade paths that link East Asia and Europe via the Gulf and the Suez Canal.

Free entry. Sat-Thu, 10am-8pm, and Fri, noon-8pm. Until Sep 29. Jameel Arts Centre, Jaddaf Waterfront, jameelartscentre.org.

Art Dubai Online

Drawing Time: Duets

Emerging from a two-year research project on paper conservation, this exhibition at Sharjah Art Foundation examines the history of drawing through rarely-seen pieces from their collection. It redefines drawing as a culturally significant practice and explores themes of duality and response.

Free entry. Until Aug 4. Gallery 4, Al Mureijah Art Space, Sharjah Art Foundation, sharjahart.org.

Art Dubai Online

Hannoun by Taysir Batniji

Palestinian artist Taysir Batniji’s exhibition at Jameel Arts Centre is a must-see. It recreates the artist’s Gaza studio, which he cannot access due to the occupation. “Hannoun,” inspired by a childhood memory, features red pencil shavings symbolizing poppies, Palestine’s national flower, evoking themes of memory and loss.

Free entry. Sat-Thu, 10am-8pm, and Fri, noon-8pm. Until August. Jameel Arts Centre, jameelartscentre.org.

Art Dubai Online
Source: taysir_batniji and @daniellabaptista_artphoto

Reverberations: Textile as Echo by Various Artists

This exhibition at Green Art Gallery features contemporary artists like M’barek Bouhchichi and Himali Singh Soin, showcasing textiles created using traditional techniques from South and West Asia and North Africa. Expect to see unique pieces like wool cloth from Morocco and Ikat fabric from Andhra Pradesh.

Free entry. Sat-Thu, 10am-7pm. Until Jul 27. Unit 28, Alserkal Avenue, 8th Street, Al Quoz, gagallery.com.

Art Dubai Online
Credit: Green Art Gallery

Sheher, Prakriti, Devi

Curated by Gauri Gill in collaboration with Sabih Ahmed, this exhibition documents urban and rural spaces in India since 2003. The series “Rememory” includes works by artists like Chamba Rumal and Vinnie Gill, offering a nuanced look at semi-urban landscapes.

Free entry. Until Jun 1. Ishara Art Foundation, A3, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, ishara.org.

Art Dubai Online
Credit: Gauri Gill @ishara.org

Short Circuits by Vikram Divecha

Vikram Divecha’s first solo exhibition in Dubai showcases installations, video works, and drawings inspired by the UAE’s urban development. Divecha, who has exhibited at the Venice Biennale and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, brings a fresh perspective on urban and social histories.

Free entry. Until Jun 16. Jameel Arts Centre, jameelartscentre.org.

Art Dubai Online
Credit: Jameel Arts Centre

Steel Life by Arnaud Rivieren

“Steel Life,” Arnaud Rivieren’s second solo exhibition, features 14 new and existing works at Custot Gallery. Rivieren’s signature stainless steel pieces, which create intricate interlocking textures, reflect his direct engagement with natural forms and architectural freedom.

Free entry. Until Jul 19. Custot Gallery, Warehouse 84, Alserkal Avenue, 8th Street, Al Quoz, alserkal.online.

Art Dubai Online
Source: custotgallery

That Which Does Not Belong

The Arts Club Dubai presents “That Which Does Not Belong,” its ninth stairway exhibition, featuring works by UAE-based artist collective Ramin Haerizadeh, Rokni Haerizadeh, and Hesam Rahmanian. The exhibition includes sculptures, collages, and paintings exploring themes of identity.

Art Dubai Online

WonderScape by OliOli

The WonderScape exhibition at OliOli offers an interactive art experience for both kids and adults. Featuring installations by artists like Karina Smigla-Bobinski and Robin Baumgarten, the exhibition explores light, color, and sound in a fun and engaging way.

Dhs169 (one adult and one child). Mon 11am-6pm, Tue-Thu 9am-6pm, Fri 11am-7pm, Sat 9am-8pm, and Sun 9am-7pm. Until end Aug. 62 4 A Street, Al Quoz 1, olioli.ae.

Art Dubai Online
Source: olioliuae

Whispers of Legends by Leila Eskandari

Iranian artist Leila Eskandari’s solo exhibition “Whispers of Legends” delves into the power of storytelling. Inspired by the Persian epic Shahnameh, her dreamlike works merge myth and reality through vivid colors and flowing lines.

Free entry. Until Jul 28. Warehouse 27, Zawyeh Gallery, Alserkal Avenue, 8th Street, Al Quoz, alserkal.online.

Art Dubai Online

Bran’s Grand Entrance into the Middle East Art Scene: A Night to Remember at ‘Art in Space’

Beat of a Wing AK-47 Art Piece DUBAI
Beat of a Wing 1 of 1 Unique Piece - Real Deactiavted AK-47 covered in Butterflies denotes Mother-Nature taking over the destructive man made tool and taking away its fatal identity.

Dubai, a city renowned for its opulence and cultural diversity, recently welcomed an electrifying addition to its vibrant art scene. The renowned artist Bran made a stunning debut in the Middle East with an exhibition that served as both an introduction to his compelling body of work and an invitation to the region to explore his artistic vision. Hosted at the chic venue ‘Art in Space’ on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, the event was a resounding success, drawing a diverse crowd from various industries and backgrounds, all eager to experience Bran’s artistry firsthand.

 

Artist Bran in Dubai - Art in Space
Artist Bran - Digital Art

The evening was a celebration of creativity and connection, filled with positive energy and an air of anticipation. The highlight of the exhibition was Bran’s striking 1 of 1 sculpture, ‘Beat of a Wing’ AK-47, a unique piece that captivated attendees with its bold statement and intricate craftsmanship. This artwork not only showcased Bran’s exceptional skill but also his ability to provoke thought and conversation through his creations.

Bran revealed that he is currently reluctant to part with this exceptional artwork ‘Beat of a Wing’, intending to showcase it in his highly anticipated solo exhibition. Despite this, eager collectors are already vying for the chance to own it, with a waiting list forming and reserve offers under consideration. Who will be the fortunate investor to secure this coveted piece?

 

Artist Bran in Dubai - Art in Space
360 Video Arena

Adding to the immersive experience, a video presentation in the main arena offered an intimate glimpse into Bran’s journey and the inspirations behind his work. Through a series of captivating photographs and narratives, visitors were able to connect with Bran’s story and understand the profound motivations that drive his artistic endeavors.

The event was more than just an exhibition; it was an invitation to the people of Dubai and the wider Middle East to engage with Bran’s work on a deeper level. The enthusiastic response from attendees was a testament to the powerful impact of his art and the growing appetite for innovative and thought-provoking pieces in the region.

Art Dubai Online - Art in Space Artist Bran
Artist Bran with Special guests in the Video Arena

As Bran’s presence in the Middle East grows, there is already buzz about a potential larger exhibition in Abu Dhabi this November. Though details are still being finalized, the prospect of Bran showcasing his work during the prestigious Formula One event has already generated significant excitement. This anticipated exhibition promises to be a landmark event, further solidifying Bran’s place in the Middle Eastern art scene and offering even more opportunities for art enthusiasts to experience his extraordinary creations.

Artist Bran in Dubai - Art in Space
Artist Bran in Dubai - Art in Space
Artist Bran in Dubai - Art in Space
The night was crowed full of great energy and people from different industries.
Artist Bran in Dubai - Art in Space
CEO of Social Platform 'E' Ali Salamat Artist Bran with the unique AK-47 covered ‘in real butterflies titled ‘Beat of a Wing'

Art in Space is a beautiful venue, The first 5th sensory gallery, Art in Space combines innovative tech with high-end art to engage all your senses for an entirely immersive and exceptional experience for all 5 senses. 

For more information regarding the art, future exhibitions and information on Artist Bran please contact LuLu Nassar : [email protected] 

www.ArtDubai.Online 

Miramar Al Nayyar’s Ethereal Art: Inspired by Rock Patterns and Grief

Miramar Al Nayyar's ethereal art

Multidisciplinary Iraqi artist Miramar Al Nayyar found profound inspiration in the patterns of sandstone during a 2022 visit to Bayda, a Neolithic archaeological site in southern Jordan. These formations, dating back to the Cambrian period millions of years ago, captivated her with their organic and abstract patterns, which stirred her subconscious mind. She envisioned bodies, waves, and animals within the beautifully lined, layered stones.

“These are illusions, but for me, they felt real,” Al Nayyar told The National. “They are movements frozen in time, and from the moment I saw them, the question came to me: what does my movement look like?”

This question forms the basis of Al Nayyar’s first solo exhibition in the UAE, “Moving Through the Ether,” held at Tabari Art Space in DIFC. Her artworks attempt to capture, recreate, or reimagine these natural formations on canvases, mostly measuring 190cm x 120cm, using her own movements and a palette of soft pastel shades. The results are light, airy, and inviting.

Al Nayyar’s new body of work is deeply personal, rooted in her grief over the loss of her father and the political and social turmoil in the world. Despite their ethereal and uplifting appearance, these pieces originate from a place of sorrow.

Following her father’s death in February last year, Al Nayyar found herself painting in lighter colors, a stark contrast to her previous darker, high-contrast works. “I never imagined I would paint something soft, gentle, and light,” she said. “But after my father died, I went to my studio and painted the lightest painting I’ve ever painted in my whole life.”

Although the paintings appear happy, they are infused with grief. “People were asking me why my paintings look happy if my father had died. But I wasn’t happy. The paintings look happy; people perceived them as happy, but they have a lot to do with grief,” Al Nayyar explained.

Her grief extends beyond personal loss to encompass global events, particularly the war in Gaza. This collective sorrow and frustration found an outlet in her art, creating beautiful forms that balance her inner turmoil with the chaos of the world.

“My mum tells me that wars are meant to leave you with a low vibration, in a state of fear, and, in this way, war wins,” she said. “I felt anxious with what was happening in the world, and that eventually leads to your heart closing up – at some point I felt so numb. So these works made me feel safe, my heart opened again.”

 

Miramar Al Nayyar

The organic shapes in her art, such as creased bedsheets, semi-floral structures, and morphed anatomical suggestions, reference a multitude of things. These stylized images, from soft, ambiguous fragments to flowing movements, are never overworked. “Movement is the base,” Al Nayyar stated. “Thoughts get materialized, thoughts take shape, and all of these natural formations took shape through movement. Movement shaped everything in nature over very long periods of time.”

Movement is central to her work, both in concept and execution. Her paintings are recordings of her physical movements, as she uses her arms and body as tools, applying colors in layers until she feels compelled to stop. Working in a semi-meditative state, she prepares meticulously to avoid distraction, allowing for a purely intuitive process. “I try as much as I can to avoid thinking during the process, because I want the feeling to come out as pure as possible,” she said. “Once I start thinking, I feel like I’m putting effort into the painting. And as long as it’s feeling effortless, then I’m good.”

In a world marked by imbalance, Al Nayyar sees her work as an attempt to heal and connect through the subconscious. “It’s a contribution, if not to the world, then it is to myself, because to me as an individual, I’m responsible to take care of my heart,” she said.

Miramar Al Nayyar's ethereal art