Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marks its 20th anniversary with a unique artistic journey. The airline unveils a captivating art exhibition titled “Unveiling the UAE: Past, Present and Future” at its new home, Zayed International Airport. This initiative celebrates not only Etihad’s rich history but also the vibrant art scene of the UAE.
A Collaborative Canvas: Showcasing Artistic Brilliance
The exhibition features the works of 20 renowned artists, both established and emerging. These individuals come together to create a multi-dimensional portrayal of the UAE, encompassing its rich past, dynamic present, and promising future. This artistic tapestry utilizes a blend of physical and digital mediums, offering a truly captivating experience for viewers.
A Commitment to Local Talent: The exhibition serves as a platform for showcasing the exceptional talents of UAE artists. Etihad recognizes the significance of the local art community and its role in enriching the cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi. By featuring these artists, Etihad provides them with a global stage to showcase their creativity.
Amina Taher, Vice President of Brand, Marketing and Sponsorships, at Etihad Airways, shares her vision: “‘Unveiling the UAE’ is an exciting initiative celebrating the UAE’s talented artists. We aim to support the cultural community that fosters artistic life in Abu Dhabi, our capital city. As part of our 20th-anniversary celebrations, we wanted to create an exhibition that reflects on the UAE’s past, present, and future. Displaying this beautiful art at Zayed International Airport allows our guests to experience it firsthand.”
Unveiling the Collection: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
The exhibition strategically presents a selection of artworks within the premium check-in area of Zayed International Airport. This allows departing passengers to engage with the art as they embark on their journeys. The full collection, however, is accessible for viewing online from May 8th to July 15th.
The collection boasts a diverse range of artistic expressions. Here are a few of the featured artists:
- Diaa Allam: A celebrated UAE-based artist known for his mastery of Arabic calligraphy and captivating live performances. Allam’s ability to seamlessly blend different calligraphy styles to convey profound messages is truly remarkable.
- Amrita Sethi: A pioneering figure in the UAE’s art scene, Sethi is the country’s first NFT artist. She consistently pushes the boundaries of artistic expression within the digital realm. Her work aligns perfectly with the forward-thinking spirit of Etihad Airways.
Other notable artists contributing to the exhibition include:
- Khawla Abu Saleh
- Mohammad Reza Domiriganji
- Sneak Hotep
- Rami Dibo
- Kristel Bechara
- Aimi Sekiguchi
- Karim Nafatni
- Anna Chekh
- Darrel Perkins
- Aysha Al Hemrani
- Gemma Gallagher
- Gigi Gorlova
- Bita Farzamnia
- Noor Hasbi Bin Yusoff
- Michel Gebrael
- Ali Pasandideh
- Ibanda Benjamin
- Evgeniia Kozhevnikova
Owning a Piece of the UAE: The Art Auction
The exhibition culminates in a unique online auction, allowing both art enthusiasts and the general public to bid on the 20 artworks. The winning bid for each piece will secure the original physical artwork (or the digital work in some cases) along with a unique NFT of the piece. This NFT component adds a layer of authenticity and exclusivity for collectors.
The Art of Blockchain: The online auction is powered by Etihad’s blockchain technology partner, Arcube. This collaboration showcases the innovative spirit of both Etihad and the UAE’s burgeoning art scene. To view the collection and participate in the bidding process, visit etihad.arcube.io. The auction concludes on July 15th, offering a limited window of opportunity to acquire a piece of this artistic celebration.
Etihad’s Soaring Legacy: A Commitment to Art and Culture
The “Unveiling the UAE” exhibition is a testament to Etihad Airways’ commitment to fostering cultural exchange and supporting local artistic talent. By celebrating the UAE’s rich heritage and artistic vibrancy, Etihad goes beyond simply being an airline; it becomes a patron of the arts and a cultural ambassador.
