The Chairman of Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism sees Ghanaian creatives as having a special place in the emirate’s thriving art scene.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak believes Ghanaians’ talent and experience make them ideal for the Saadiyat Cultural District (SCD), an ambitious project aiming to be a global center for artistic collaboration.
“We especially want to work with Ghanaian artists,” Al Mubarak said in an interview. “There’s a vast array of Ghanaian cultural content beyond visual arts and architects, including music, fashion, and design.”
The SCD already boasts a piece by renowned Ghanaian sculptor El Anatsui as a highlight of its Guggenheim Abu Dhabi collection. Al Mubarak highlighted this acquisition as a testament to the high quality of Ghanaian art.
A Global Hub for Artistic Expression
The SCD is the physical manifestation of the UAE’s founding father’s vision for a nation defined by its cultural heritage. It brings together a diverse range of world-class institutions within a short walking distance.
These institutions include:
- The Louvre Abu Dhabi, featuring classical art including the famed Mona Lisa.
- The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, a museum dedicated to contemporary art.
- The Zayed National Museum, chronicling the history of the Emirates.
- The Natural History Museum, showcasing a 100-million-year-old Stegosaurus fossil.
- The Abrahamic Family House, a center for interfaith dialogue.
- Berklee Abu Dhabi, a prestigious music school.
- Teamlab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, an interactive art experience.
- Manarat al Saadiyat, a cultural center at the heart of the district.
Al Mubarak emphasizes that the SCD aims to break down barriers and promote understanding.
“The scale and scope of these institutions are incredible,” he said. “Yet, they deliver powerful messages that connect you to humanity’s broader story. Visiting these museums fosters a sense of unity and reduces prejudice.”
Financial Support for Local and International Artists
The Department of Culture and Tourism is committed to supporting artists, both local and international. This includes financial aid in the form of subsidies and affordable studio spaces. Abu Dhabi’s diverse population, with over 200 nationalities represented, is a testament to this commitment.
Highlighting Africa’s Rich Heritage
The upcoming “Kings and Queens of Africa” exhibition at the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a prime example of the SCD’s focus on Africa. Co-curated with African museums, this exhibition will showcase the continent’s majestic past through artifacts and installations.
“The next major exhibition we are working on is ‘Kings and Queens of Africa,'” Al Mubarak said. “This will be a signature event of 2025, showcasing the rich history of African kingdoms.”
These initiatives, along with others, are expected to significantly boost Abu Dhabi’s tourism industry. The goal is to increase tourism’s contribution to the emirate’s GDP to at least 10% by 2030.
