City Tower 2 Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. From Al Riwaq’s website.
Al Riwaq Art Space in Manama announces a new solo exhibition by Emirati photographer Ammar Al Attar – Prayer Rooms,opening 29th September.
For this ongoing project Ammar Mohammed Al Attar photograps prayer rooms across the Arabic peninsula. After photographing in Jeddah and Mecca he recently photographed throughout the UAE.
From Al Riwaq’s information text: ‘These informal worship areas are ubiquitous, providing Muslims a place for their five prayers a day regardless of their location. The decorative elements of these interiors are incredibly humble, in line with Islamic architectural tenets and in contrast to the exterior opulence of the UAE’s architectural development. Serenity and stillness are common elements in these makeshift rooms, transforming their spatial reality as industrial caravans or rooms in malls and business centers, to that of spiritual sanctuaries. The artist presents locales that are seemingly obscure, but upon closer inspection provide a visual history of his rapidly developing country by presenting a cultural continuity which is rarely visible.’
Ammar Al Attar was born in Dubai in 1981 and currently lives and works in the emirate of Ajman.
Here are more images from the UAE and Mecca and Jeddah Prayer Rooms series.
Dubai Mall Fashion Avenue. From the artist’s website.
Ammar Al Attar, Jeddah, Al Sawareekh Market. Courtesy of Athr Gallery and the Artist
Ammar Al Attar, Makkah, Al Masjid Al Haram Road. Courtesy of Athr Gallery and the Artist
The artist at work. Courtesy Athr Gallery and the artist.
Recent Events in Al Riwaq Art Space
August 18- 21
The American Art and Technology Space Open This September
On August 18th, the American Embassy sponsored a 4-day seminar inaugurating the new American Art and Technology Art Space. An amazing team here facilitated this technological and creative extravaganza, along with brilliant talented participants whose collective efforts created a hugely successful event.
Al Riwaq will be offering a membership program which will allow interested individuals use of the advanced equipment available at the new space, including a 3-D laser printer and Poster Lasier.
Upcoming Events
November 28th – December 14th
Market 338
Market338 returns to Adliya November 28-December 14, 2013, with a special focus on Bahrain circa 1950s. A strategic platform for the promotion and dissemination of design culture in the area, Market 338 features the work of local and regional designers.