Christie’s celebrates two decades in the UAE with inaugural Abu Dhabi auction
A milestone exhibition of seventy works spanning nine decades of artistic vision, MAWASIM marks Christie's twenty year presence in the region with an unprecedented gathering of modern and contemporary masterworks from the Middle East.
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Christie’s marks a significant milestone in its enduring presence within the United Arab Emirates with the presentation of MAWASIM: 20 Years of Modern and Contemporary Middle Eastern Art, a landmark exhibition that stands as testament to two decades of distinguished connoisseurship and cultural stewardship across the region. This inaugural fine art auction in Abu Dhabi represents a defining moment in the auction house’s storied relationship with the Emirate, bringing together an exceptional assembly of seventy carefully curated works that celebrate nine decades of artistic expression from the Middle East.

Held at The Abu Dhabi EDITION, the exhibition showcases an extraordinary selection of modern and contemporary masterworks, each representing the refined aesthetic sensibilities and cultural significance that define this pivotal period in regional artistic achievement. The collection encompasses works by celebrated artists whose contributions have indelibly shaped the contemporary art landscape, their pieces speaking to evolving narratives of identity, heritage and artistic vision that resonate throughout the broader Middle Eastern artistic sphere.

A Celebration of Artistic Heritage
The curation of MAWASIM reflects Christie’s deep understanding of the region’s artistic patrimony and its commitment to elevating works of enduring significance. By bringing such an accomplished selection to auction in Abu Dhabi itself, Christie’s demonstrates an unwavering dedication to fostering appreciation for Middle Eastern art within its natural cultural context, whilst simultaneously affirming the Emirate’s position as a centre of artistic excellence and refined taste.

The presentation of these seventy works serves as both a retrospective of the past nine decades and a celebration of the creative forces that continue to shape contemporary artistic dialogue. Each piece within the collection carries with it layers of cultural resonance, artistic innovation and the distinctive vision of artists whose legacies contribute profoundly to the broader tapestry of global contemporary art.

Marking Two Decades of Excellence
This milestone auction represents far more than a transactional event; it embodies Christie’s commitment to cultivating deeper engagement with collectors, artists and cultural institutions throughout the UAE. The auction house’s two decade presence in the region speaks to an enduring partnership built upon mutual respect, shared appreciation for artistic excellence and a collaborative vision for the future of art patronage and collecting in the Middle East.

Those wishing to engage with this momentous exhibition are invited to contact Christie’s directly for further information and private viewing arrangements, thereby ensuring a bespoke and personalised experience befitting the significance of this extraordinary collection.
Imagery courtesy of Christie's (@christiesrealestatedubai).




