Life

Louvre Abu Dhabi See humanity in a new light

December 01, 2017

Mariam Nihal



Saudi Gazette

Louvre Abu Dhabi’s galleries convey the story of humanity in twelve inspiring chapters. Each room narrates a different chapter from history, sharing themes throughout humanity using works from prehistoric artifacts to contemporary artworks.

Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the museum contains 12 chapters, namely The First Villages, The First Great Powers, Civilizations and Empires, Universal Religions, Asian Trade Routes, From The Mediterranean To The Atlantic, Cosmography, The World In Perspective, The Magnificence Of The Court, A New Art Of Living, A Modern World, Challenging Modernity and A Global Stage.

Louvre Abu Dhabi acquired more than 600 artworks that are exhibited alongside 300 works on loan from 13 prestigious French institutions.

Surrounded by the sea on Saadiyat Island, the buildings are interconnected by waterfront promenades beneath the museum’s dome.

The museum was officially opened to the public on November 11.

During its opening celebrations, Louvre Abu Dhabi welcomed 30,000 visitors, 227 artists and performers.

To mark the occasion, Louvre Abu Dhabi hosted four days of public performances, workshops and concerts, including an exceptional audiovisual light show from Groupe F and headline concerts under the museum’s iconic dome from French superstar Matthieu Chedid, known as –M–; Malian singer and dancer Fatoumata Diawara; jazz and world music sensation Ibrahim Maalouf; and Colombian-Caribbean powerhouse Totó La Momposina.

The museum presented 25 events by 227 artists across the four days, including choreography by Lucinda Childs and Lemi Ponifasio; traditional Emirati Al Ayaala, Chinese and Dogon parades; a music video montage of found TV footage by Emirati artist Hind Mezaina; and other multicultural music, dance and art performances. “Welcoming thousands of visitors to Louvre Abu Dhabi during the opening week has been an honour,” said Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi. “Walking under the dome and seeing the rain of light for the first time is an awe-inspiring experience, and a dramatic backdrop for the multicultural performances and concerts. Louvre Abu Dhabi’s opening week has been characterized by a truly joyful, creative atmosphere, which has inspired Abu Dhabi’s residents and visitors.”

Residents, tourists and delegations visited Louvre Abu Dhabi throughout the opening week, exploring its universal collections and architecture for the first time. Around 1 million people visited Louvre Abu Dhabi’s website during the week, and the museum registered more than 1,100 new members of its Art Club membership program.


December 01, 2017
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