The NYU Abu Dhabi Art Gallery is pleased to announce the next show at its auxiliary venue, The Project Space. Opening to the public on June 7, Symphoniae is an exhibition of the latest body of works by Dubai-based, Brazilian artist Elizabeth Dorazio.
Symphoniae revolves around the creation of harmony from disparity, the simple juxtaposition of objects in each artwork performing the function of weaving together what is apart. The works of Symphoniae, hovering between sculpture and craft, evoke a kind of permanent movement, arising from the dynamic interactions between their disparate but complementary parts.
Dorazio employs the temperamental medium of egg tempera alongside more popular art techniques. Al-khous palm frond weavings, crafted by Emirati Bedouin women, spiral throughout the work, forming the basic backdrop across which dance other elements, some crafted, some appropriated. The eclectic components of Symphoniae both invite a multiplicity of interpretations, and raise the question of what it means to “cannibalize” other cultures. By appropriating materials that were constructed by the hands of others, Dorazio has incorporated these other voices into her works.
Symphoniae opens to public at 7:30 pm on Thursday, June 7 with a reception in The Project Space.
The Project Space is managed by the NYU Abu Dhabi Art Gallery team, and housed within the campus’ Arts Center. It is dedicated to exhibitions generated by the communities in and around NYU Abu Dhabi, including the annual Capstone Festival, faculty exhibitions, and projects by artists based in the UAE. Its mission is to provide a non-commercial platform for experimentation and exploration.
Symphoniae
Elizabeth Dorazio
June 7 – 23, 2018
The Project Space, NYU Abu Dhabi (inside the Arts Center)
Saturday – Thursday, 3 – 10 PM