Heritage Through Art: “My Celebrity Pop Art” and “Revived Fragments” at Art of Living Mall

Exibitions “My Celebrity Pop Art” by Emirati artist Ahmad Al Awadi and “Revived Fragments” by Syrian artist Muhannad Al Kelani opened on June 29 at the Art of Living Mall.

On June 29, the Art of Living Mall in Dubai hosted the grand opening of an exhibition featuring two distinguished artists: Emirati painter Ahmed Rukni Al Awadhi and Syrian artist Muhannad Al Kelani. This captivating showcase, which draws together a tapestry of cultural heritage and personal history, offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the rich pasts of the UAE and Syria through the eyes of these talented artists.

Exibition “My Celebrity Pop Art” Art by Emirati Ahmed Rukni Al Awadhi

Better known as 'Rukni,' the 60-year-old Emirati artist has been captivating audiences since he first began exhibiting his work in 1992. A pivotal moment came when a friend, impressed by Rukni's paintings of traditional Emirati architecture, dallah coffee pots, and wildlife, urged him to share his art with the world. Since then, Rukni has dedicated himself to portraying the story of the UAE, aiming to connect the nation’s youth with their heritage.

His latest collection, “My Celebrity Pop Art”, features vibrant portraits of celebrities, rich in cultural symbolism, that bridge the gap between the UAE's past and present, engaging young Emiratis with the country's history and traditions.

Inspired by the traditional houses of his upbringing in Sharjah, Rukni's artwork serves as a narrative tool, weaving the tale of the UAE for both Emirati youth and an international audience. His evocative pieces stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of Emirati culture.

Exibition Revived Art Fragments by Syrian artist Muhannad Al Kelani

The other half of this compelling exhibition features the works of Muhannad Al Kelani, a 68-year-old Syrian artist born in Damascus. Despite growing up in an environment that did not prioritize art, Al Kelani’s passion for drawing emerged early. Driven by a deep desire to imitate and create, he found solace and understanding in art. “Art was my escape, my way to understand the world,” Al Kelani reflects.

Self-educated through books on drawing principles and active participation in the art community, Al Kelani honed his skills across various mediums, including pencil, charcoal, wood, watercolor, and oil. His latest collection, “Revived Fragments”, beautifully captures the essence of ancient Damascus neighborhoods, historical sites, and serene naturescapes, often reflecting a post-modern expressionist style. Despite the challenges posed by the Syrian Civil War, Al Kelani's art remains a poignant preservation of Arabic heritage, portraying its most beautiful aspects.

A Cultural Dialogue

The exhibition at the Art of Living Mall is more than just a display of art; it is a cultural dialogue between two artists who, despite their different backgrounds, share a common goal: to preserve and celebrate their heritage. Through their distinctive styles and mediums, Rukni and Al Kelani invite viewers to embark on a journey through time, exploring the rich histories and vibrant cultures of the UAE and Syria.

As visitors wander through the gallery, they are greeted by a myriad of portraits and landscapes that not only showcase the technical prowess of these artists but also their deep-rooted connection to their cultural identities. The exhibition stands as a reminder of the power of art to transcend borders and connect people with their pasts.

For those in Dubai, this exhibition at the Art of Living Mall is a must-see. It is an opportunity to witness the beautiful convergence of Emirati and Syrian heritage, as seen through the eyes of two remarkable artists.

Article, photo, video: Ana S. Gad