Venice Biennale 2024 Showcases UAE National Pavilion Specialty
It’s truly heartwarming to see the vibrant representation of Emirati youth at the UAE National Pavilion in Venice Biennale.
Their commitment to showcasing authentic Arab hospitality to visitors from around the world is commendable.
The artist Abdullah Al Saadi’s captivating exhibition, titled “Places of Memory… Places of Forgetfulness,” has been drawing visitors into a cultural journey.
Under the artistic supervision of Tarek Abu El Fetouh, Al Saadi’s work invites reflection on memory, identity, and the interplay between remembering and forgetting.
Layla bin Brik, Director of the UAE National Pavilion in Venice, highlights the significant role played by these young ambassadors.
They engage with visitors, sharing the UAE’s achievements and its evolution across various sectors, including the arts.
Expressing Creativity
Through artistic workshops, they express their creativity and contribute fresh ideas.
This year’s training program in Venice has expanded, bringing together young professionals and students from both the UAE and Italy.
The program offers a unique opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the daily operations of the UAE National Pavilion.
During international art and architecture exhibitions.
It’s open to Emiratis and long-term residents who are 21 and above.
Be Part of the International Architecture Exhibition in Venice
Applications are now open for participation in the International Architecture Exhibition in Venice
In case you are interested in arts, architecture, diplomacy, international relations, or representing the UAE on a global stage.
You can apply for the exhibition running from May to November 2025.
The program includes in-depth educational sessions about the UAE, in partnership with leading cultural institutions.
Participants engage fluently with the exhibition content in Venice.
While working alongside selected Italian trainees from the prestigious Ca’ Foscari University.
Fostering cultural exchange and knowledge sharing.
The International Art Exhibition at Venice Biennale opened its doors to a wide international audience on April 20.
Featuring the UAE National Pavilion alongside 87 other participating countries.
The exhibition continues until November 24, offering a rich tapestry of artistic expression and global dialogue.
Let me share some insights and ways to explore The UAE National Pavilion further:
The National Pavilion UAE has its own official website: National Pavilion UAE – La Biennale di Venezia.
Here, you’ll find detailed information about past exhibitions, current projects, participating artists, and the pavilion’s mission.
It’s a great starting point to dive into the UAE’s creative contributions at Venice Biennale.
Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation serves as the Commissioner of the National Pavilion UAE since 2014.
They collaborate to showcase previously untold artistic and architectural stories from the UAE to local and international audiences.
The Ministry of Culture and Youth also supports the pavilion’s endeavors.
Publications:
The pavilion has produced several insightful publications over the years. Some notable ones include:
- Abdullah Al Saadi: Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia (2024)
- In Plain Sight: Scenes from Aridly Abundant Landscapes (2023)
- Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim: Between Sunrise and Sunset / Works 1986-2022 (2022)
- The Anatomy of Sabkhas (2021)
- Nujoom Alghanem: Passage (2019)
- Lifescapes Beyond Bigness (2018)
- Rock, Paper, Scissors: Positions in Play (2017)
- Transformations: The Emirati National House (2016)
- Lest We Forget: Structures of Memory in the UAE (2014)
- Walking on Water (2013)
OPEC confirmed that the UAE economy continues its strong growth, especially in non-oil sectors such as real estate, tourism and manufacturing. pic.twitter.com/iWrKUbi5BL
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) August 13, 2024
Venice Internship:
The Venice Internship program associated with the National Pavilion UAE has had a significant impact on personal development for its alumni.
It’s worth exploring how this program has shaped the experiences of young professionals and artists associated with the pavilion.
The UAE has been participating in the International Art Exhibition since 2009 and the International Architecture Exhibition since 2014.
The pavilion’s journey over the years reflects the country’s commitment to artistic expression and cultural exchange.
If you happen to be in Venice during the Biennale, consider visiting the UAE National Pavilion in person.
It’s located at the Arsenale – Sale d’Armi, a prestigious venue within the Biennale grounds.
Remember, the UAE National Pavilion is not just about showcasing art
It is also a bridge connecting cultures, sparking conversations, and celebrating creativity.
