Sharjah 24: Today, Wednesday, His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, inaugurated the UAE Pavilion at the Venice Biennale Art Exhibition in Italy. Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and Abdullah Ali Al Sabousi, the UAE Ambassador to Italy, were also present.

The exhibition showcases the work of Abdullah Al-Saadi under the theme "Places of Memory, Places of Forgetting." The Minister highlighted the significance of the UAE's cultural participation on the global stage and praised Al-Saadi's contribution to Emirati art over four decades.

Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi highlighted the significance of the UAE's participation in the 2024 Venice Biennale as a crucial aspect of the country's international cultural engagement. He emphasised that this event offers a platform to showcase the UAE's artistic achievements on a global scale, allowing them to be appreciated by art enthusiasts worldwide. Al-Saadi, he noted, remains a leading figure in conceptual art and has significantly influenced the Emirates' art scene for over four decades. The Minister expressed delight in presenting Al-Saadi's distinguished works to the public at the Venice Biennale.

Laila Bin Braik, Director of the UAE National Pavilion, emphasised the importance of Al Saadi’s work in portraying the country’s natural landscape. Tariq Abu Al-Futouh, the curator, described the exhibition as an honour and a rich experience, showcasing Al-Saadi's multi-layered artistic journey.

Al-Saadi expressed his delight in sharing 40 years of artistic exploration and hoped the exhibition would provoke contemplation about humanity's place in the world. The Pavilion extended gratitude to the Sharjah Performing Arts Academy for their collaboration in supporting Emirati artists on the international stage.