The exhibition is being held through Abu Dhabi Authority of Culture and Heritage (ADACH). It is quite an honour to be one of the select few who get to do this show. As the exhibition title suggests, ‘Up Close’ is inspired by personal experiences. I will be showcasing artworks on canvas; my style can be categorised as ‘Abstract Expressionist’. Technically speaking, ‘Abstract Expressionist’ as a style lays emphasis on spontaneous, automatic or subconscious creation. This style favours large canvasses, dramatic colours, and loose brushwork.
Organizing and preparing for the show was a combination of hard work and fun. I attended a lot of Art Meets at other artists residences and hosted a few in my home too. Over numerous cups of tea, coffee, cookies and brownies, we mulled over possible names for the exhibition, discussed how we can make it a success, what should be the content for brochures, etc. We have been working together for the last seven months to make this a success.
‘Up Close’ promises to be quite unique and I am tremendously excited about this show because, for the first time, I and fellow artists will be interacting with viewers by giving workshops in person. For art lovers, enthusiasts and aspiring artists alike, this is a fantastic opportunity to meet the artists in person and discuss their techniques or ideas behind their work.
To many of you the workshops may not seem extraordinary, but let me explain, we artists are intensely protective about our creative process. Strangers are generally not welcomed in artists’ private studios where artworks are created. One writer put it aptly when she said ‘The relationship of an artist and his or her studio is reputed to be like one between possessive lovers; a stranger in the middle is always an intrusion’. Therefore, I am sure you can fathom what a giant leap it is for me, as an individual artist, to reveal my creative process.
My workshop is on Abstract Expressionism, and I will create a new piece of artwork on canvas. I will use a combination of acrylics and oils for the painting. The days and times for the workshop are, 28 September and 2 October, between 4pm- 6pm
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