Minus Reality in Dubai

This exhibition, curated by Lateefa Maktoum, is one of the first exhibition containing over 20 artists that live and work in the UAE. The artists representing a cross of nationalities packed the house of Art Attack Gallery on the evening in June. The exhibition focused on works that in some way portrayed an illusory realm. Visit http://www.lateefa-art.com for more information about the exhibition and artists.

Zayed University at Meem

Located across from Mall of the Emirates, and in the industrial area of Al Quoz is Meem Gallery. This spring the gallery opened its doors to the universities of the region to display artists and student work. "Rtoosh" exhibited the works of Colleen Quigley, Jennifer Theokary, Karen Oremus, Ayyub bin R. Hamilton, Todd Devriese, Janet Bellotto and Thomas Tucker, as well as student works.

A Cultural Island of Happiness

As the art and culture are further looked at theArts Center investment opportunity in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi has put its wheels in motions and has commissioned leading architects to create "Saadiyat Island" - meaning the island of happiness. This will be a leading cultural hub that will host the infamous names of museums such as the Guggenheim and the Louvre. Architects include Frank Ghery, Zaha Hadid, Tado Ando, and Jean Nouvel - my favorite.

Photos include model of Hadid's Performing Arts Centre and Nouvel's Classical Museum.

Sharjah Biennial 8 Opening

The Arts Area in Sharjah was a buzz with artists, curators, art afficionados and delegates who were enjoying the opening reception of "Still Life". The Sharjah Museum seemed to be a never-ending maze of artworks, as the contemporary museum consists of two adjoining buildings with a coinciding exhibition by the Emirates Fine Art Society.

A Gala dinner continued across the street, which served some delicious dishes including lobster bisque and some rare fruits. Speeches included the award announcement The party continued in Dubai at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club hosted by The Third Line gallery and Bidoun. The music was booming inside (which left something to be desired) but the waterfront terrace was missing a bit of ambience for the guests looking to dance under the stars. But it was the intermingling that connected Cairo, Istanbul, New York, Toronto and other cities that kept people from leaving.

Photo: His Highness speaking with Italian artist Claudia Losi; far left biennial curator Mohammed Kazem; far right background SB8 artistic director Jack Persekian.