ArtDayME: ArtDubai's vibrant art scene takes center stage with the unveiling of the 'Encounters' exhibition, curated by the esteemed Alia Zaal Lootah. This captivating showcase brings together a rich tapestry of Emirati artistic talent spanning generations, offering a profound exploration of creativity and connection.

Previously confined to the private realms of collectors and institutions, these artworks now step into the public sphere, engaging in a dynamic dialogue with one another within the exhibition space. Each piece undergoes a unique experience as it is placed in a new context, fostering unexpected encounters and intergenerational juxtapositions that echo with artistic interplay.

These artworks have been borrowed for the artdubai 'Encounters' exhibition from The private collection of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,The A.R.M. Holding Art Collection,The Snow Feinan Li private collection,Fournie Collection,Khaled and Hana Habbal Collection,Jamil Hallak Collection,Nadine Kanso Collection,Rakesh Kumar Collection,Mohamed Maktabi Collection,Collection Olivier Georges Mestelan, Rami Al Ali Collection.

Featuring a diverse lineup of artists from the United Arab Emirates, including luminaries such as Hassan Sharif, Mohammed Kazem, and Abdul Qader Al Rais, the exhibition provides a rare opportunity to experience the sensation of curating a personal collection. From avant-garde approaches to experimental techniques, the artworks on display encapsulate a myriad of influences, forging new connections and inviting viewers to observe and appreciate the essence of each piece without imposing unnecessary interpretations.

At the heart of 'Encounters' lies the idea of community collaboration, a principle deeply ingrained in Dubai's cultural fabric. Alia Zaal Lootah, artist and curator, emphasizes the organic growth of connections between the people and the government, a relationship that has flourished over time. This ethos is reflected in initiatives like the Dubai Collection, which sees local collectors lending their art to create the city's first institutional collection of modern and contemporary art.

Through 'Encounters', Lootah aims to highlight the interconnectedness of Emirati artists and their creative expressions, weaving a narrative that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Dubai. The exhibition serves as a testament to the city's commitment to fostering artistic dialogue and appreciation, creating a platform where artists, collectors, and the public come together in celebration of creativity and connection.

As 'Encounters' unfolds during Art Dubai 2024, it invites audiences to embark on a journey of discovery, where each encounter with an artwork offers a glimpse into the soul of Emirati artistry. With its thought-provoking curation and diverse lineup of talent, this exhibition promises to be a captivating exploration of artistic expression and intergenerational dialogue, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.