rom food to fashion, trends shape how we see
the world. Trends determine what we buy, where we
travel, what we eat and what we wear. The art world is no
different. Major movements in global art create a ripple
effect stretching from high-end galleries to the walls of
individual collectors’ homes.
Last year was an eclectic one for the international
art scene, when art walked hand in hand with global
movements. A surge in female empowerment spurred
countless memorable pieces as women around the world
celebrated themselves; among these powerful female-
focused works of art include Rania Daou’s compositions
around inspirational women. The desire to travel spurred
a rapid increase in ‘Escapist’ art, as owners, adventure
seekers and collectors aimed to soften their wanderlust
cravings (until they travelled) with art which transported
them to another place.
Gina Plunder, with her take on ‘Escapism’, will be one of
the ‘artists to watch’ at the fair this year. According to
her, the ‘Wishhouse’ collection, which will feature visual
elements from iconic buildings across the globe, offers a
journey into another world.
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Ahead of World Art Dubai, the Middle East’s largest
affordable retail art fair, which returns to Dubai World
Trade Centre 3-6 April, I believe modern artists are
reverting to the classical paintings from the past for
inspiration. Their creations may be contemporary in
form, but they purposely blur the boundaries between
often quite distant eras, such as Lizelle Engelbrecht who
combines traditional materials like oil paint and ink with
more modern art supplies specifically gold-leaf, aluminum
and epoxy resin.
This aligns with buying trends, as collectors increasingly
opt for art which expands their understanding of the
world around them. Despite portraits and landscape
pieces maintaining their classic attraction, we can expect
these to take a backseat with ‘Escapist’ art here to stay as
buyers search for more.
One to watch – the sustainable art movement is – gaining
support and interest and is likely to top the bill this year.
As people become more aware of their footprints – both
carbon and green – artists are taking inspiration from new
source materials and creating exceptional pieces that
urge the viewer to consider an array of socio-political
factors. Robert Kratz, who’s concern over the planet
pollution has spurred his creativity and contributed to his
“Under Water, Under The Moon” collection displayed at
this year’s retail fair.
In the UAE, we should expect more hype and clamour
surrounding Emirati art. Classic Arabian art forms such as
Calligraphy will remain popular, but today’s Emirati artists
are expressing their creativity through an increasingly
diverse set of art mediums including photography, video,
painting, sculpture and digital. Be sure to check out the
highly-anticipated Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah, who
will demonstrate this variety of art types this year.
Finally, price. Surrounded by topsy-turvy markets and a
culture that’s about deals and added value, the desire for
affordable art primarily influences any decision-making.
With the paying public consciously seeking the best deal
and price, home and corporate buyers alike crave unique,
awe-inspiring pieces, but don’t want to pay over the odds.
With pieces ranges from Dhs 500 – 3,000, the ‘Art For
Every Wall’ feature at World Art Dubai is readymade to
tap into this segment. The area will display pieces from
over 45 artists.
Anyone looking to learn more about current and
predicted art trends can also attend a bill of expert talks,
live painting sessions and hands-on creative learning
workshops at World Art Dubai. With all sessions led by
some of the region’s most recognised artists, collectors
old and new can expect cutting-edge discussions on
emerging trends – and whether they are here to stay
or only fleeting. Keep an eye on the World Art Dubai
website for a schedule closer to the show.
For more information on Art Trends, please visit:
www.worldartdubai.com
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