Abu Dhabi Biennial: Transforming the City into an Art Gallery

Introduction to the Biennial's Second Phase

The second phase of the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial has launched with dynamic new installations throughout the city. Notable highlights include Tarik Kiswanson’s first public work, Nest, Rand Abdul Jabbar’s striking Crown near Etihad Square, and Lúcia Koch’s subtly integrated Deep Spaces. In total, nine new artworks have been inaugurated, furthering the Biennial's mission to transform the emirate into a sprawling outdoor museum.

Art Across Abu Dhabi

Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the Biennial showcases the creations of over 70 artists from the UAE and beyond. Strategically placed throughout Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, these art installations include 40 new commissions. Visitors can explore seven self-guided routes, taking them from the corniche to public parks, through bustling downtown areas, and to cultural hotspots like the Cultural Foundation and the National Theatre. The carpet souq district features an additional five installations for those exploring by car.

Cultural Explorations and Installations

The Biennial aims to delve into the cultural fabric of Abu Dhabi's diverse populace, focusing on the transient communities' public narratives. Key exhibits include Sophia Balagamwala’s Other Maps and Guides, a literary collection that blends personal narratives with the evolving cityscape, depicting life in a city where tradition and modernity meet. The Arquitectura Expandida collective enhances street life with their Urban Negotiation project, featuring an unexpectedly moving ping-pong table.

Artistic Interventions in Urban Spaces

Part of the second launch event was Atelier Aziz Alqatami’s plan for renovating the Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal’s mezzanine. The transformed space will host events and exhibitions, revitalising a once-celebrated wedding hall. The Bus Terminal Route is further enriched by works from artists like Henrique Oliveira and Zeinab Al Hashemi. Hussein Sharif is scheduled to add another piece in March.

Art as an Educational Tool

Public art also serves as a learning resource. Artist Ayesha Hadhir presented Playful Traditions at the Cultural Foundation, inviting children to engage with Emirati heritage through tangible installations like a dhow and traditional fishing implements.

Exploring Al Ain's Historic Routes

The Biennial extends to an eighth, historically embedded route in Al Ain. Here, the Anga Art Collective’s Migration Granary stands at the Hili Archeologic Site, providing contemplation on migratory history. Additional works by artists such as Shaikha Al Ketbi and Yeesookyung adorn the landscape. The Al Ain Oasis features collaborations by Alex Ayed, Nathan Coley, and Rawdha Al Ketbi nestled amid ancient relics.

Biennial Activities and Events

Running until April 2025, the Biennial surpasses mere static displays by integrating public engagements such as Frying Pan Adventure’s cultural tours and Wael Shawky’s film screenings at the Cultural Foundation. Mobile Academy Berlin will also host immersive performances. Regular events, including concerts at Christopher Joshua Benton’s Where Lies My Carpet Is Thy Home installation, continue to animate the Carpet Souq with community spirit.