The Collectors Salon returns with a significant evolution—this year placing a special focus on South Asian art—and presenting an expanded selection of manuscripts, astrolabes, rare books, and historical objects. As before, the approach draws its inspiration from the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s pioneering framework of exploring the interconnectedness of civilizations and cultures across time. By situating historical artifacts alongside contemporary works, the Salon offers a timely reminder that today’s artistic practices are deeply rooted in the legacy of the past. Contemporary artists continue to borrow from, reinterpret, and respond to heritage in ways that are layered, resonant, and often unexpected. Art history and art commerce alike are grounded in the enduring power of narrative—one that spans generations and geographies, and in this edition of the Fair, includes a deeper exploration of South Asia’s rich visual and material traditions. In this spirit, the connoisseur embraces an eclectic appreciation for art—curating a life that celebrates diversity, historical depth, and cross-cultural resonance.
Nigeria Spotlight: In collaboration with the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, this section spotlights seven pioneering galleries from Nigeria, showcasing the strength and dynamism of the country’s contemporary art scene. As one of Africa’s leading cultural hubs, Nigeria continues to shape global conversations through bold, narrative-driven works that explore identity, politics, history, and place. The Focus sector at Abu Dhabi Art forms part of the country’s Nigeria Everywhere initiative, which aims to increase global exposure of Nigerian creativity, particularly in new and emerging regions, by spotlighting the diversity and excellence of its cultural output. Participating galleries will showcase a diverse range of emerging and established artists whose practices are grounded in local realities while engaging with global discourse. From mixed-media explorations to figurative painting and conceptual installations, the works reflect the innovation, depth, and urgency that define contemporary Nigerian art today. Participating galleries include: SOTO Gallery, AMG Gallery, returning exhibitor kó, O’DA Gallery, 1897 Gallery, Windsor Gallery, Imora Gallery, and a special project with MADhouse by Tikera Africa.
Bringing together works by some of the most avant-garde artists from the Arabian Peninsula — including pioneers such as Sami Al Marzoogi, Nasser Al Yousif, and Hassan Sharif — this year’s Khaleeji Focus at Abu Dhabi Art also highlights emerging voices such as Alymamah Rashid and Nasser Al Salem. Working across diverse media, the artists featured in this sector have played, or are continuing to play, a vital role in shaping the contemporary art landscape of the Gulf.
Modern Türkiye: Curated by Doris Benhalegua Karako, this new focus section under the global focus sectors, showcases rarely seen works by modern masters. Participating galleries include: DG Art Gallery and Projects (featuring works by Fahrelnissa Zeid) Art On Istanbul Gallery (spotlighting Burhan Doğançay) BüroSarigedik (presenting Gülsün Karamustafa and Cengiz Çekil)