The festival has been curated by award-winning photographer Alfio Tommasini around the theme of ‘In Motion
The Ras Al Khaimah Art 2024 Festival will officially open to the public on February 2 at the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. Organised by Ras Al Khaimah Art, the festival is a year-long cultural initiative that supports both established and up-and-coming talent.
According to a press statement, the festival has been curated by award-winning photographer Alfio Tommasini around the theme of ‘In Motion.’ The central theme invites visitors to challenge the concept of a new ‘normal’ and celebrate diversity and change in various forms, from AI to space journeys.
It says that the Ras Al Khaimah Art 2024 Festival, presented by Aldar, is set to be an immersive and sensory cultural experience for visitors that will present a mix of heritage and modernity with a curated display of over 100 different artists, as well as inspiring masterclasses, public talks and live performances.
The statement adds that new for 2024 is the addition of the Souq, a contemporary art exhibition and market featuring global artists and craftspeople. Another key addition this year is ‘Ephemeral Whispers’, a kinetic art installation on the Fort Tower, symbolising 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 statement adds that 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.
According to the statement, the 12th edition of the festival will also host a series of interactive experiences and live performances. Visitors can unleash their creativity with a programme 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 documentaries and narratives from award-winning directors.
Foodies will be treated to the return of award-winning cultural heritage dining experience Antica Australis, the statement adds. Featuring specially curated four-course set menus starring local organic produce from Ras Al Khaimah, Australian native ingredients and Emirati flavours,
Antica Australis will present a limited series of lunch and dinner events over three weekends during the festival from February 3 to 18, the statement adds. Seatings are limited to 20 covers and advance booking is essential, the statement adds.
Pet owners and animal lovers can explore the festival’s Pet-Friendly Weekend from February 9 to 11. 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, the statement adds.
