DUBAI: On March 2, the intriguing art show “Ecstasy” debut at the Art Point Gallery captivated both art fans and culture aficionados. Curated by acclaimed artist and curator Jesno Jackson, this collaboration between Art4you Gallery and Art Point Gallery promised a visual feast of unique talent, which will run until April 6.
“Ecstasy” features the works of 11 international artists from ten countries, providing a unique examination of artistic expression that transcends geographical limits. Each artist brings their unique cultural viewpoint and personal narrative to the surface, creating a rich tapestry of creation that captivates and inspires.
“The pieces I’ve chosen for “Ecstacy” immerse us as some of the best narratives do, in the midst of things. We will enter with a kind of jolt and what we witness will have something timeless about it. Like flipping to a page somewhere in the middle of a novel and beginning to read, we might not know what’s going on, but we gladly read on. While selecting work for this exhibit, I was taken aback by the many interpretations of this theme – including the ways in which each artist depicted their own unique revelations.”, says curator Jesno Jackson.
Featuring the works of renowned international artists, this showcase promises to be a feast for the senses and a celebration of the human spirit.
Andrew Scanlan, a visionary prominent artist from Britain. The notion that there is order inside chaos is one that Andrew enjoys tinkering with. The way our minds interpret the world has always captivated him. Numerous tiny coloured cells represent what we perceive. The cells appear more random the closer we look at them. The brain then puts these cells together to create a picture when we draw away. The artist utilises this phenomenon as inspiration for his artwork. “I like to play around with the idea that there is order within chaos! I’ve always been interested by how our brains interpret the world around them. Everything we see is made up of numerous small coloured cells. The closer we look at these cells, the more random they appear. When we draw away, the brain knits these cells together to form a picture. Andrew claims he uses this occurrence to make his paintings.
Elham Ghorbani Shad boldly navigates the vast terrain of human emotions through her artwork, with a particular focus on the portrayal of women. In a realm where the depiction of women has often been a subject of contention across different historical periods, she steers clear of societal debates and instead delves into the depths of human experience. In each brushstroke, she seeks to evoke a visceral response, inviting viewers to contemplate the essence of womanhood in its purest form. Through her art, she invites us to transcend the limitations of societal discourse and connect with the profound humanity that unites us all. Elham Ghorbani Shad from Iran presents works infused with rich symbolism and emotional depth, inviting contemplation and introspection. Elham usually gains inspiration from nature and women figures in the everyday surroundings.
Azin Rezai‘s captivating series, ‘Lady in Kamilat Projects’, offers a mesmerising fusion of poetry, calligraphy, and women’s expression in portraiture. In her painting titled ‘Color of Calligraphy’, Rezai masterfully intertwines vibrant hues of green, blue, gold, and red to create a visual symphony that speaks to the soul. Through her art, Rezai invites viewers on a journey of introspection, where the beauty of language and the power of feminine expression converge in a harmonious dance of colour and line. Her work transcends mere representation, offering a profound exploration of identity, culture, and the universal human experience. As viewers gaze upon her paintings, they are transported to a realm where words take flight and emotions find resonance in every stroke of the brush. She is an idealist, perfectionist, and a protester against any infringement on freedom and beauty. She often expresses her emotions and reactions to events through poetry and painting. Each brushstroke is imbued with intention, capturing the essence of poetry and calligraphy within the graceful contours of the female form.
Eric Kwadwo Afranie, a visionary mosaic and collage artist, has embarked on a unique artistic journey that not only captivates the eye but also serves as a powerful medium for promoting environmental conservation. Born with a passion for art and a deep appreciation for the interplay between nature and man-made materials, Afranie’s work stands as a testament to his commitment to sustainable creativity. Afranie’s works carry a unique resonance due to his intentional use of Ghanaian and African names for his pieces. This cultural homage adds layers of meaning to his art, making it a powerful medium for storytelling and reflection. The way he composes his images, rooted in African society, reflects a bold and distinct style that invites viewers to engage with the rich tapestry of his heritage. In the creation of this mosaic portraits, each stone in this masterpiece contributes to a harmonious composition that reflects the multifaceted qualities that define his remarkable leadership. The mosaic captures the radiant spirit of tolerance that permeates the UAE, creating a mosaic of cultures, beliefs, and aspirations.
Hana Achour’s artistic journey is a testament to her diverse life experiences, from her early years in Africa to her studies in Europe. Born in Lebanon, Hana’s and formative years in Congo fostered a deep connection with nature, inspiring her initial paintings. Her unique style combines landscapes with emotional narratives, reflecting her past and present. Sculptor Hanan Achour’s ‘Newborn’ encapsulates the profound beauty and significance of new life. Crafted in bronze, this artwork embodies the essence of “a newborn as the seed of eternal togetherness.” Through her sculpture, Achour captures the delicate innocence and potential inherent in every newborn, symbolising the beginning of a journey filled with love, growth, and connection. With meticulous attention to detail, she imbues the sculpture with a sense of warmth and tenderness, inviting viewers to contemplate the timeless bond between parent and child, and the enduring power of family and togetherness.
Kay‘s artwork is a celebration of freedom and expression through the medium of resin art. With each piece, Kay invites viewers to immerse themselves in a world of mesmerising abstractions, where vibrant colours dance and intertwine in a captivating display of creativity. Stepping into Kay’s exhibition is like entering a realm where constraints dissolve, and the imagination is set free to roam. Through the magical medium of resin and precious stones, Kay creates works that transcend the boundaries of traditional art forms, inviting viewers to witness the beauty that emerges when creativity knows no bounds.
Mohammed Awad’s artworks are an exploration of heavy on form and layers, the harmonious expression in his paintings gradually give way to figures, architectural forms, and intricate shapes to patient art-lovers, primarily focus on Orientalism and 3D compositions in diverse in sustainable mediums. He adds depth to his artwork by using the 3D embossing technique, which is similar to genuine emotional expression through powerful images. Nonetheless, Awad’s distinct Middle Eastern influence, derived from the profound tradition of Bedouin culture, distinguishes his work.
Painter Iamshell uses an expressionist style. She wants to share her enthusiasm and affection for life’s vibrant side as well as its richness. She aims to transport viewers into the vibrant, vivid world of her vision, complete with sophisticated, captivating characters. Her paintings are instinctively created; she uses a lot of abstraction in the initial layer and leaves a lot of it in the final piece. Polina’s use of diverse techniques allows her to express the topic and mood of each painting with greater vividness.
Emirati artist Mouza Rashed Al Darmaki hails from the lovely city of Al Ain. She is passionate about producing captivating artworks that blend modern and traditional art forms. Her favourite genres to work in are abstract, textured art, and portrait painting because they give her the freedom to express her creativity and elicit strong feelings. Her paintings are a reflection of my passion for trying out novel mediums and stretching the bounds of conventional art. Her goal is to enthrall spectators and transport them into a realm of feelings and imagination with every work.
Rafah Abdulrazzak’s art emanates heartfelt narratives from Syria, exuding resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Notably, she embraces contemporary techniques, continuously pushing her artistic boundaries. Her works often depict famous Syrian landmarks like the Norias of Hama, the Aleppo castle, and the city of Palmyra, imbuing them with profound meaning. Through her cityscapes, Rafah invites viewers to witness the enduring spirit of her homeland, showcasing its rich history and unwavering strength amidst challenges.
Stephanie Neville’s bold expressions from South Africa challenge perceptions and ignite conversations about identity and belonging. With an interest in textile arts, Neville employs traditional handmade techniques to express a feminine approach to conceptual art. ‘Blushing Bride – 2019’ exhibited in this show, is a captivating exploration of the concept of marriage from the female perspective. Through her use of hand-embossed paper, organza textile, and acrylic paint on canvas, artist creates a multi-dimensional piece that invites viewers to delve into the complexities of relationships. The hand-embossed paper adds texture and depth, reminiscent of the intricate layers within a relationship. The organza textile lends a softness and delicacy to the composition, symbolising the tender emotions associated with love and marriage. The bride’s expression radiates warmth and happiness, embodying the hopeful spirit of new beginnings. Her work is not simply a depiction of a bride on her wedding day; it is a reflection on the emotional journey of marriage, from the anticipation of the ceremony to the promise of a shared future. Through her art, Stephanie invites viewers to explore the complexities of relationships and celebrate the beauty found within the bonds of love.
The collaboration between Art4you Gallery and Art Point Gallery demonstrates a dedication to encouraging cultural exchange and worldwide communication via the universal language of art. By bringing together artists from all around the world, “Ecstasy” enables spectators to examine the common threads that connect us all, honouring the limitless possibilities of artistic creativity. The support of Fluer Nation and The Green Revolution have been crucial in making this exhibition a reality. They have allowed us to and elevate the arts community and provide a platform for artists to share their visions with the world.
The exhibition was inaugurated by chief guests Dr. Abdulla Al Shaibani and H.E. Yaqoob Al Ali, whose invaluable contributions were instrumental in making this event a triumph, graced by the presence of Mr. Hatem Khalil Al Sayegh and Ms. Bernadette Eslais (Founders of the Art Point Gallery), and other VIP guests – Ms. Hanan Al Nuami, Mr. Moosa Al Halyan, Mr. Maktoum Almarzooqi, Dr. Mariam Shaikh, Lara Tabet and Kiara Kaur.
The upcoming panel talk, ‘Celebrating Women’s Voices: Amplifying Stories of Resilience and Achievement’, organised in conjunction with the art exhibition, is poised to be a truly empowering and inspiring event. Led by keynote speaker H.E. Laila Rahhall and expertly moderated by Jesno Jackson, this panel brings together a diverse lineup of accomplished women from various fields. With esteemed speakers including Stephanie Neville, Dr. Edyta Skibinska, Vasilisa Eliseeva, Kiara Kaur, Maria Komal Abie, Mona Ali, and Anul Mundra, attendees can anticipate candid discussions and heartfelt narratives that delve into personal journeys of triumph over obstacles, breaking barriers, and thriving in the face of adversity. This event is not just a celebration of International Women’s Day but also a collaboration with the exhibition “Ecstasy.” Through the platform provided by this panel talk, the aim is to amplify the voices of women, shedding light on their strength and resilience while fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges they encounter. Moreover, the event underscores the importance of gender equality and inclusivity in our society.
Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious to experience the beauty of global creativity, visit the Art Point Gallery and embark on a multinational adventure through the realm of artistic expression.
Exhibition Dates – March 2 to April 6, 2024.
Time – 10am to 9pm
Venue – Art Point Art Gallery, Al Wasl Rd, Jumeirah 2, Dubai
