THE FIRST MUSEUM, THE ONE AND ONLY IN THE ARAB WORLD, OPENS ITS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC ON NOVEMBER 11, 2017.
Located in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Louvre Abu Dhabi, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, is a universal exhibition that focuses on human stories that are shared across different cultures and civilizations, a kind of City-Museum covered by a 180-meter dome, consisting of almost 8,000 metal stars set in a complex geometric pattern. When sunlight filters through, it creates a moving ‘rain of light’ beneath the dome, reminiscent of the overlapping palm trees in the UAE’s oases.
Visitors can walk through the promenades overlooking the sea and admire the important collection of works of art and finds of the museum, as well as numerous loans from French museums. The works range from prehistoric objects to the works of contemporary art, highlighting universal themes and ideas. In addition to the galleries – which will be 12, both thematic and chronological – the Museum will offer temporary exhibitions, a children’s Museum, an auditorium, a restaurant, a shop and a café.
The opening ceremony will include a wide range of programs and initiatives open to the public, including symposia, performances, concerts, dance shows and visual arts of renowned contemporary and classical artists. Based on a scientific and cultural innovative project that combines the experience of 13 museums and French institutions guided by Agence France-Muséums, the Louvre Abu Dhabi will offer visitors a unique experience: a new journey through the greatest works of art of different civilizations, reflecting our common humanity. Therefore, the Louvre Abu Dhabi has the aim to spread a message of tolerance and peace and reaffirms its commitment to promote the culture and the education as a shield against the extremism.
Credit Mohamed Somji
