Ecstasy: Where the Ordinary Transforms into the Extraordinary, and Imagination Knows No Bounds

0

Art enthusiasts and cultural aficionados alike are in for a treat as the captivating art exhibition “Ecstasy” opens its doors at the Art Point Gallery on March 2nd. Curated by the renowned artist and curator Jesno Jackson, this collaborative effort between Art4you Gallery and Art Point Gallery promises a visual feast of diverse creativity, running until April 6th. Located at Art Point Gallery on Al Wasl Road in the vibrant neighbourhood of Jumeirah, the venue itself adds to the allure of the exhibition, providing a stunning backdrop for the eclectic collection of artworks.

Featuring the works of 11 international artists hailing from 10 different nationalities, “Ecstasy” offers a unique exploration of artistic expression transcending geographical boundaries. Each artist brings their own cultural perspective and personal narrative to the forefront, resulting in a vibrant tapestry of creativity that captivates and inspires. “The pieces I’ve chosen for “Ecstacy” immerse us as some of the best narratives do, in the midst of things. We will enter with a kind of jolt and what we witness will have something timeless about it. Like flipping to a page somewhere in the middle of a novel and beginning to read, we might not know what’s going on, but we gladly read on. While selecting work for this exhibit, I was taken aback by the many interpretations of this theme – including the ways in which each artist depicted their own unique revelations.”, says Curator Jesno Jackson.

Featuring the works of renowned international artists, this showcase promises to be a feast for the senses and a celebration of the human spirit. From the captivating cellular art of British artist Andrew Scanlan to the evocative expressions of Iran’s Azin Rezaei and Elham Ghorbani Shad, each artist brings their unique perspective and human expressions and figurative study to the forefront.

The notion that there is order inside chaos is one that Andrew Scanlan enjoys tinkering with. The way our minds interpret the world has always captivated him. Numerous tiny colored cells represent what we perceive. The cells appear more random the closer we look at them. The brain then puts these cells together to create a picture when we draw away. The artist utilizes this phenomenon as inspiration for his artwork.

Elham Ghorbani Shad boldly navigates the vast terrain of human emotions through her artwork, with a particular focus on the portrayal of women. In a realm where the depiction of women has often been a subject of contention across different historical periods, she steers clear of societal debates and instead delves into the depths of human experience. In each brushstroke, she seeks to evoke a visceral response, inviting viewers to contemplate the essence of womanhood in its purest form. Through her art, she invites us to transcend the limitations of societal discourse and connect with the profound humanity that unites us all. Elham Ghorbani Shad from Iran present works infused with rich symbolism and emotional depth, inviting contemplation and introspection. Elham usually gain inspiration from nature and women figures in the everyday surroundings.

Azin Rezai’s captivating series, “Lady in Kamilat Projects,” offers a mesmerizing fusion of poetry, calligraphy, and women’s expression in portraiture. In her painting titled “Color of Calligraphy,” Rezai masterfully intertwines vibrant hues of green, blue, gold, and red to create a visual symphony that speaks to the soul. Each brushstroke is imbued with intention, capturing the essence of poetry and calligraphy within the graceful contours of the female form. Through her art, Rezai invites viewers on a journey of introspection, where the beauty of language and the power of feminine expression converge in a harmonious dance of color and line. Her work transcends mere representation, offering a profound exploration of identity, culture, and the universal human experience. As viewers gaze upon her paintings, they are transported to a realm where words take flight and emotions find resonance in every stroke of the brush. She is an idealist, perfectionist, and a protester against any infringement on freedom and beauty. She often expresses her emotions and reactions to events through poetry and painting.

Experience the stone art of Ghana through the lens of Eric K Afranie, the destiny compositions and bronze sculpture of Lebanon’s Hana Achour, and the intricate resin art luxury works by Indian artist Kay.

Eric Kwadwo Afranie, a visionary mosaic and collage artist, has embarked on a unique artistic journey that not only captivates the eye but also serves as a powerful medium for promoting environmental conservation. Born with a passion for art and a deep appreciation for the interplay between nature and man-made materials, Afranie’s work stands as a testament to his commitment to sustainable creativity. Afranie’s works carry a unique resonance due to his intentional use of Ghanaian and African names for his pieces. This cultural homage adds layers of meaning to his art, making it a powerful medium for storytelling and reflection. The way he composes his images, rooted in African society, reflects a bold and distinct style that invites viewers to engage with the rich tapestry of his heritage. In the creation of this mosaic portraits, each stone in this masterpiece contributes to a harmonious composition that reflects the multifaceted qualities that define his remarkable leadership. The mosaic captures the radiant spirit of tolerance that permeates the UAE, creating a mosaic of cultures, beliefs, and aspirations.

Hana Achour’s artistic journey is a testament to her diverse life experiences, from her early years in Africa to her studies in Europe. Born in Lebanon, Hana’s and formative years in Congo fostered a deep connection with nature, inspiring her initial paintings. Her unique style combines landscapes with emotional narratives, reflecting her past and present. Sculptor Hanan Achour’s “Newborn” encapsulates the profound beauty and significance of new life. Crafted in bronze, this artwork embodies the essence of “a newborn as the seed of eternal togetherness.” Through her sculpture, Achour captures the delicate innocence and potential inherent in every newborn, symbolizing the beginning of a journey filled with love, growth, and connection. With meticulous attention to detail, she imbues the sculpture with a sense of warmth and tenderness, inviting viewers to contemplate the timeless bond between parent and child, and the enduring power of family and togetherness.

Kay’s artwork is a celebration of freedom and expression through the medium of resin art. With each piece, Kay invites viewers to immerse themselves in a world of mesmerizing abstractions, where vibrant colors dance and intertwine in a captivating display of creativity. Stepping into Kay’s exhibition is like entering a realm where constraints dissolve, and the imagination is set free to roam. Through the magical medium of resin and precious stones, Kay creates works that transcend the boundaries of traditional art forms, inviting viewers to witness the beauty that emerges when creativity knows no bounds.

Journey through the orientalist works of Saudi Arabia with Mohammed F. S Awad, the contemporary visions of the UAE women by Mouza Rasheed Al Darmaki, and the rich and vibrant expressionism by Russian artist Polina Aitkulova (Iamshell).

Mohammed Awad’s artworks are an exploration of heavy on form and layers, the harmonious expression in his paintings gradually give way to figures, architectural forms, and intricate shapes to patient art-lovers, primarily focus on Orientalism and 3D compositions in diverse in sustainable mediums. He adds depth to his artwork by using the 3D embossing technique, which is similar to genuine emotional expression through powerful images. Nonetheless, Awad’s distinct Middle Eastern influence, derived from the profound tradition of Bedouin culture, distinguishes his work.

Painter Iamshell uses an expressionist style. She wants to share her enthusiasm and affection for life’s vibrant side as well as its richness. She aims to transport viewers into the vibrant, vivid world of her vision, complete with sophisticated, captivating characters. Her paintings are instinctively created; she uses a lot of abstraction in the initial layer and leaves a lot of it in the final piece. Polina’s use of diverse techniques allows her to express the topic and mood of each painting with greater vividness.

Emirati artist Mouza Rashed Al Darmaki hails from the lovely city of Al Ain. She is passionate about producing captivating artworks that blend modern and traditional art forms. Her favorite genres to work in are abstract, textured art, and portrait painting because they give her the freedom to express her creativity and elicit strong feelings. Her paintings are a reflection of my passion for trying out novel mediums and stretching the bounds of conventional art. Her goal is to enthrall spectators and transport them into a realm of feelings and imagination with every work.
From the heartfelt narratives of cityscapes of Syria’s Rafah Abdulrazzak to the dynamic paper-imposed work by South African artist Stephanie Neville, this exhibition is a testament to the power of art to transcend borders and unite us all.

Rafah Abdulrazzak’s art emanates heartfelt narratives from Syria, exuding resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Notably, she embraces contemporary techniques, continuously pushing her artistic boundaries. Her works often depict famous Syrian landmarks like the Norias of Hama, the Aleppo castle, and the city of Palmyra, imbuing them with profound meaning. Through her cityscapes, Rafah invites viewers to witness the enduring spirit of her homeland, showcasing its rich history and unwavering strength amidst challenges

Stephanie Neville’s Stephanie Neville bold expressions from South Africa challenge perceptions and ignite conversations about identity and belonging. With an interest in textile arts, Neville employs traditional handmade techniques to express a feminine approach to conceptual art. “Blushing Bride – 2019” exhibited in this show, is a captivating exploration of the concept of marriage from the female perspective. Through her use of hand-embossed paper, organza textile, and acrylic paint on canvas, artist creates a multi-dimensional piece that invites viewers to delve into the complexities of relationships. The hand-embossed paper adds texture and depth, reminiscent of the intricate layers within a relationship. The organza textile lends a softness and delicacy to the composition, symbolizing the tender emotions associated with love and marriage. The bride’s expression radiates warmth and happiness, embodying the hopeful spirit of new beginnings. Her work is not simply a depiction of a bride on her wedding day; it is a reflection on the emotional journey of marriage, from the anticipation of the ceremony to the promise of a shared future. Through her art, Stephanie invites viewers to explore the complexities of relationships and celebrate the beauty found within the bonds of love.

The collaboration between Art4you Gallery and Art Point Gallery underscores a commitment to fostering cultural exchange and promoting international dialogue through the universal language of art. By bringing together artists from around the world, “Ecstasy” invites viewers to explore the common threads that unite us all, celebrating the boundless possibilities of artistic expression.
Exhibition was Inaugurated by Chief Guests, Dr. Abdulla Al Shaibani and H.E Yaqoob Al Ali, whose invaluable contributions were instrumental in making this event a triumph, graced by the presence of Mr. Hatem Khalil Al Sayegh and Ms. Bernadette Eslais (Founders of the Art Point Gallery), and other VIP Guests – Ms. Hanan Al Nuami, Mr. Moosa Al Halyan, Mr. Maktoum Almarzooqi, Dr. Mariam Shaikh, H.E Laila Rahhall, Lara Tabet and Kiara Kaur.

Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious to experience the beauty of global creativity, Visit the Art Point Gallery today and embark on a multinational adventure through the realm of artistic expression.

Exhibition Dates – March 2 to April 16, 2024.
Time – 10am to 9pm
Venue – Art Point Art Gallery, Al Wasl Rd, Jumeirah 2, Dubai

An anchor with NABC TV for almost 10 years. Also co-anchors prime-time market shows like Morning Breakfast, Traders only, Markets Mid-day and NSE Closing Bell.

Comments are closed.