Symbiotic: Hyperreal
Talal Al Najjar, Ziad Al Najjar
This exhibition shows the work of two artists who are also brothers. They each maintain a distinct individual practice, but developed in close proximity to one another. Both practices draw upon their relationship to their surroundings, particularly Dubai, where they grew up.
The term “symbiotic” here describes several dualities that manifest in the show: that of two brothers, that of the two cultures in their family of origin, and that of life in the UAE, with its attendant tension between tradition and modernity. Through their work, the artists search for balance between their traditional Emirati heritage, often portrayed using imagery of animals from their family farm, and the experience of living in modern Dubai. Each of these artists emulate this experience of dualities by applying ancient motifs from various cultures to a contemporary context.
Curated by Tala Nassar
Exhibition Hours
Tuesday through Sunday: 12-8 pm. Closed on Mondays.
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Opening Reception: Thursday, June 01, 5:30 PM
Artists
Talal Al Najjar
(b. 1999, Dubai; lives and works between Dubai and Los Angeles)
Read moreTalal Al Najjar received his BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (2021) and his MFA from the ArtCenter College of Design, in Los Angeles (2023). He has shown his work internationally including the Jameel Arts Center, and Alserkal Avenue (both Dubai); the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (Chicago); and the Art Center College of Design (Los Angeles).
Ziad Al Najjar
(b. 2001, Dubai; lives and works between Dubai and Chicago)
Read moreZiad Al Najjar received his BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (2023). He has shown his work internationally, including exhibitions at Tabari Artspace, Sikka Art Festival, and Maisan15 (all Dubai); the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (Chicago); and Gallery Bawa (Kuwait City).