Marking a decade of artistic excellence, World Art Dubai (WAD), the region’s largest contemporary art fair, is poised to present its most ambitious edition at Dubai World Trade Centre from 2nd to 5th May 2024.
This year, World Art Dubai (WAD), in collaboration with Dubai Culture, invites art enthusiasts on a journey through a decade of artistic evolution, aiming to make art more accessible to a wider audience. Aligned with Dubai's goal to double the contribution of creative industries to its GDP by 2026, WAD plays a pivotal role by showcasing the works of over 300 artists and galleries from Dubai and worldwide. In 2024, WAD aims to amplify its impact, featuring over 4,000 artworks from 65 countries and expecting 15,000 visitors. With 12 pavilions dedicated to various regions, the fair offers experiential art activations, live performances, and curated talks, creating a holistic cultural experience celebrating global art diversity.
Exhibitors offered art tourism experience
In 2024, World Art Dubai (WAD) introduces the innovative WAD Tourism Art Tour, offering curated guided tours and interactive local art experiences across the emirates for all exhibitors.
Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Dubai World Trade Centre, celebrates the 10th edition milestone, emphasizing the partnership with Dubai Culture and the tour's role in spotlighting Dubai's vibrant art scene globally.
Dr. Saeed Mubarak Kharbash, CEO of the Arts and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the partnership's contribution to advancing Dubai's cultural and creative industries and making art more accessible to a wider audience. This collaboration aims to enhance cultural exchange and strengthen Dubai's position as a global cultural destination.
Unique offerings from legacy exhibitors
In the dynamic landscape of WAD 2024, esteemed artists from legacy exhibitors like Lotus Educational Institute, Art Plus Photographers Production, and JAPAN PROMOTION Gallery are set to captivate visitors with their distinct perspectives and creative mastery. Momoko Ishikawa, representing the 54-strong artist collective of JAPAN PROMOTION Gallery, expresses honor in showcasing Japanese art, blending contemporary pieces with traditional techniques like the 'maki-e' painting method and the 'nishijin-ori' weaving technique. These intricate processes, spanning over centuries, produce artworks of serene beauty and exquisite detail. With such unique offerings, WAD 2024 promises an immersive exploration of global art and culture, shining a spotlight on Dubai's vibrant art scene.
For the 2024 edition, an impressive 40% of exhibitors are returning to exhibit, a testament to the value they find in being part of this vibrant artistic community. This high rate of exhibitor retention reflects the trust and satisfaction exhibitors have in the platform, further solidifying WAD’s position as a premier destination for artists and galleries alike. With a growing roster of returning participants, WAD continues to foster long-lasting relationships and provide a supportive environment for artistic growth and collaboration.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
