Ras Al Khaimah Art, the year-long cultural initiative nurturing existing and emerging talent, has announced details of the Ras Al Khaimah Art 2024 Festival, which will officially open to the public on Friday, February 2nd, 2023, at 9pm, at the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village.
Curated by the award-winning, Alfio Tommasini, and embracing the theme of ‘In Motion’, the Ras Al Khaimah Art 2024 Festival, presented by Aldar, is set to be an immersive and sensory cultural experience for visitors, bridging heritage and modernity with a curated display of over 100 different artists, as well as inspiring masterclasses, public talks and live performances.
Commenting on the theme of this year’s festival, Tommasini said: “In Motion challenges the concept of a new “normal” and beckons you to embrace the constant evolution of our diverse world. From generative AI and NFTs to space journeys and environmental movements, our Festival celebrates and critiques the power of motion and change, bringing together a variety of artforms whilst stimulating dialogue between artists, authors, creatives and the community.”
New for 2024 is the addition of The Souq, a contemporary art exhibition and market featuring artists and craftspeople from around the world. Another key addition this year is Ephemeral Whispers, a mesmerizing kinetic art installation on the Fort tower, symbolizing unity, and the dynamic nature of human interactions in response to the exhibition theme In Motion and the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village history. The fabric installation blends contemporary and traditional materials from diverse cultures, suspended like tapestries, serving as visual metaphors for the rich heritage and experiences facilitated by marketplaces throughout history.
In addition to the curated exhibitions, the 12th edition of the festival will also host a series of interactive experiences and live performances. Visitors can unleash their creativity with a program of artistic workshops, from wire knitting and resin ocean art to photography and ceramics, or enjoy dynamic musical experiences, stand-up comedy, and other artistic performances with Live Performance Saturdays. Visitors will also have the opportunity to engage in discussions on culture, innovation, and sustainability with a six-part speaker series and enjoy a diverse array of screenings with Friday Film Nights, featuring thought-provoking documentaries and captivating narratives from award-winning directors.
Foodies will also be well catered for with the return of award-winning cultural heritage dining experience Antica Australis. Featuring specially curated four-course set menus starring local organic produce from Ras Al Khaimah, Australian native ingredients & Emirati flavors, Antica Australis will present a limited series of lunch and dinner events over three weekends during the Festival from Saturday 3 to Sunday 18 February 2024. Seatings are limited to 20 covers and advance booking is essential.
Meanwhile, pet owners and animal lovers are invited to explore the festival with a dedicated Pet-Friendly Weekend from 9 – 11 February. Not only will furry friends be welcomed to explore the festival, but owners can also participate in special events and workshops including pet collar/harness art, pottery nametag painting, pet photography and pet fashion shows taking place throughout the weekend.
