Dubai is poised to elevate its global prominence with the introduction of a series of expansive public art projects and iconic installations, set to redefine its cityscape and bolster its status as a burgeoning business hub and prime real estate destination.
Initiated by Inloco, a Dubai-based organization dedicated to promoting arts and artists, these upcoming large-scale public art projects aim not only to enhance the emirate’s international renown but also to cultivate a deeper connection among its residents with their cultural heritage.
Natalia Voznesenskaia, CEO of Inloco Initiative, emphasized the human-centric approach behind these artistic endeavors, stressing the importance of initiatives designed to improve the well-being and quality of life of Dubai’s inhabitants.
These initiatives are expected to unlock new economic opportunities, stimulate tourism, and enhance the value of real estate across the emirate. Voznesenskaia highlighted the potential for large-scale public art projects to catalyze business growth and foster a vibrant cultural landscape, making Dubai an even more appealing destination for visitors.
Inloco Initiative’s global debut in Dubai will feature the inaugural solo exhibition of contemporary artist Filippo Minelli, showcasing a thought-provoking exploration of urban and cultural dynamics in the post-globalization era. The organization’s ‘Inloco Storage’ program will introduce an online platform offering a curated selection of artworks, including limited edition prints and small-scale art objects, aimed at broadening access to contemporary art.
In addition to these initiatives, Inloco Initiative will host a series of public talks and discussions on the significance of art in urban environments, further enriching Dubai’s cultural tapestry and fostering dialogue within the community.
Large-scale public art projects are known as the door openers for new business opportunities in the areas where the art objects are presented
The chief of Inloco, a term meaning “in place” in Latin, emphasized the significance of public discussions in advancing the organization’s mission, fostering dialogue, and contemplating the role of art in shaping and being shaped by cityscapes and communities.
“Dubai sets trends, and with our extensive experience, we aim to pioneer innovative urban art practices,” stated Voznesenskaia. “This aspiration is evident in our latest initiative, the development of the public-access Inloco Storage, intended to curate and exhibit a collection of contextualized art creations.”
The upcoming releases will spotlight artists adept at blending urban contemporary art with nuanced semantics, employing diverse artistic approaches.
“The organization upholds principles of freedom and temporality, recognizing the significance of the connection between urban art and its mediators within the broader contemporary art context,” Voznesenskaia added, underscoring their mission to bolster independent art and enhance local recognition through collaborative endeavors.
Voznesenskaia highlighted the transformative impact of city-wide public art programs, likening them to the construction of landmarks. She noted that unlike landmarks tailored solely for tourists, public art installations benefit both tourists and residents, contributing to overall well-being and community engagement.
Reflecting on projects like Freej Al Murar by the Dubai Creative Unit in Satwa, Voznesenskaia observed increased business activity and enhanced real estate value in the area, fostering a sense of care among residents.
Discussing Dubai’s evolving landscape, Voznesenskaia likened the city’s rapid development to that of a startup, necessitating moments of reflection and reconnection with roots amid the bustling pace of progress.
Public art, she emphasized, creates spaces owned by citizens, fostering emotional connections akin to those found in nature and promoting happiness and psychological stability in a fast-paced metropolis.
In addition to Filippo Minelli, Inloco Initiative will collaborate with esteemed artists such as Neda Salmanpour, an architect and sculptor, and Lokher, an Algerian painter and urban artist.
The proposed public art projects in Dubai are anticipated to incur multi-million dollar investments, with smaller commissions like murals estimated around $20,000, although costs may vary significantly based on scale and complexity, Voznesenskaia noted.