TDIC has a commitment to cultural development that goes well beyond its role as master developer of major institutions for Saadiyat Island's Cultural District. The company has embraced the Government of Abu Dhabi's intention of transforming the UAE capital into an intercontinental cultural hub and is promoting plurality of cultural appreciation through an expansive educational programme. This programme has led to the creation, in Emirates Palace, of Gallery One - the museum within a palace - which is a venue of international standing which now hosts world-class exhibitions. To date these have included The Arts of Islam: Treasures of the Nasser D, Khalili Collection which attracted an audience of over 60,000 in a three-month run and Picasso Abu Dhabi: Masterpieces from the Musee National Picasso, Paris - the first large scale show of Picasso works in the Middle East, Emirati Expressions exhibition which featured 160 pieces by 63 artists, Talking Art: Louvre Abu Dhabi which was conceived to celebrate the continuing development of the Louvre Abu Dhabi project, and The Guggenheim: The Making of a Museum which showcased masterpieces from the world-renowned collection of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York. In its approach to ensuring education for all, these exhibitions are free-of-charge to the public and are accompanied by a range of public programmes including; talks, films, workshops and much more.
In addition, TDIC in collaboration with ADACH organised Abu Dhabi Art in November 2009, an annual art fair and events platform which included 50 participating galleries from around the world along with an accompanying programme of lectures, workshops and events.
Currently running is Disorientation II: The Rise and Fall of Arab Cities, an exhibition of works presented by artists from Middle Eastern countries, which explore Arab cities from the perspective where both unity and division co-exist. The exhibition will run until 20 March 2010, and open daily from 2pm-8pm. In partnership with the Middle East International Film Festival, a selection of films will be shown in conjunction with Disorientation II. This exhibition and film screenings are in Arts Abu Dhabi Gallery at Manarat Al Saadiyat, a new cultural venue located on Saadiyat Island, home of the Cultural District.
The Saadiyat Cultural District Exhibition, at Emirates Palace, is open year round and provides a wonderful overview on this exciting project. Visitors can learn more about Saadiyat Island and the plans for the five museums that make up the Cultural District; including profiles of the architects, models of the buildings and information on the cultural partners and content for the museums.
To find our more about the ongoing cultural programme produced by TDIC please call +971 2 6908207 or visit http://www.artsabudhabi.ae