An IMGW News Trend Setters Article
Art Dubai 2025: A Celebration of Creativity and Innovation
Art Dubai returned to Madinat Jumeirah from 18 to 20 April 2025, with previews on 16 and 17 April, reaffirming its status as the Middle East’s premier art fair. This 18th edition boasted participation from over 120 galleries representing more than 60 cities across five continents, encapsulating the fair’s commitment to diversity and discovery. Art Dubai+2jdeedmagazine.com+2ArtDayME+2Your Ultimate Guide to Dubai
“Art Dubai 2025 promises a dynamic and enriching experience, reflecting the city’s evolving cultural landscape and its role as a nexus for global artistic exchange.”
Contemporary and Modern Sections
The Contemporary section featured 70 exhibitors, including first-time participants from Casablanca, Tokyo, Mexico City, and Prague, highlighting Art Dubai’s dedication to showcasing under-represented art communities. The Modern section, curated by Magalí Arriola and Nada Shabout, delved into the shared histories of West Asia, North Africa, and other post-colonial regions, featuring artists such as Bertina Lopes, Mehdi Moutashar, and, for the first time, Venezuelan kinetic artist Dario Perez Flores. Art Dubai
Bawwaba: A Gateway to Recent Works
Bawwaba, meaning “gateway” in Arabic, returned under the curation of Mirjam Varadinis, focusing on works created within the past year that explore themes of displacement and contemporary global issues. Artists such as Kate Newby, Gulnur Mukazhanova, and Tomas Saraceno presented pieces that challenge and engage audiences.
Art Dubai Digital: After the Technological Sublime
Now in its fourth year, Art Dubai Digital examined the intersection of art and technology under the theme After the Technological Sublime. Curated by Gonzalo Herrero Delicado, this section features presentations by international galleries and platforms, including Hafez Gallery, HOFA Gallery, and GAZELL.iO, showcasing works that address pressing environmental, social, and political issues through digital mediums. Arte & Lusso+1Art Dubai+1
Educational Initiatives and Community Engagement
Art Dubai 2025 continues its commitment to education and community engagement. The A.R.M Holding Children’s Programme returned for its fifth edition, led by artists Peju Alatise and Alia Hussain Lootah, focusing on local ecosystems and ecological awareness through artistic lenses. Additionally, the fair offered a series of talks and workshops, including the Global Art Forum, Collector Talks, and Modern Talks, fostering dialogue and learning among artists, collectors, and enthusiasts. Art Dubai+1ArtDayME+1Art Dubai+2ArtDayME+2Art Dubai+2
Leadership and Vision
In January 2025, Art Dubai announced the appointment of Alexie Glass-Kantor as Executive Director, Curatorial, and Dunja Gottweis as Fair Director, signaling the fair’s ambition for growth and enhanced global engagement. These appointments aim to develop partnerships, institutional collaborations, and oversee the fair’s vision across its platforms. Art Newspaper
Art Dubai 2025 promised a dynamic and enriching experience, reflecting the city’s evolving cultural landscape and its role as a nexus for global artistic exchange.
