Get set for interactive experiences, musical performances, film screenings and more
The inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial is in full swing, transforming Abu Dhabi into a celebration of art with works by more than 70 artists installed across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
This December, the Biennial is inviting the community to participate in a diverse programme of activities, including interactive experiences, musical performances, film screenings, and more.
Below is a snapshot of key upcoming activities. For more details and latest timings and locations, please check the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial website at paad.ae/biennial and social media channels for the latest updates.
Interactive experiences
Every Sunday from 5 to 7pm
Remote Al Ain by Rimini Protokoll
Theatre collective Rimini Protokoll pushes the boundaries of conventional theatre. During this performance walk within the collective’s series ‘Remote X’ (2013–ongoing), you are invited to explore the growing presence of artificial intelligence in future cities.
For this tour catered specifically to Al Ain, headphone-wearing participants are guided by a computer-generated voice into familiar and unfamiliar sites that emerge as if from an imagined film.
Remote Abu Dhabi by Rimini Protokoll
For this tour, catered specifically to Abu Dhabi, headphone-wearing participants are guided by a computer-generated voice into familiar and unfamiliar sites that emerge as if from an imagined film.
Van Der Pol live performance at Abu Dhabi Beach
Artist duo Bik Van der Pol (Liesbeth Bik and Jos Van der Pol) engage in collaborative projects on how art constructs public spaces for speculative thought and collective creativity.
The poem that jumps the fence (2024) features weekly performances on Abu Dhabi Beach and workshops connecting words and sand as real and symbolic material that binds our world.
Every Sunday afternoon, a performer writes a poem in the sand, only for it to fade away. During workshops in collaboration with local poets and writers, participants generate text for the performances.
‘FLEX’ by Load na Dito at Flex Story Souvenirs
Every Saturday at 6 pm
FLEX is a talking and listening game created by Manila-based curatorial and research initiative Load na Dito in 2019, where participants explore the meaning of words based on personal experiences while moulding clay.
Inspired by the city’s ubiquitous gift shops, the accompanying installation will feature your colourful clay forms that record participants’ hand gestures during the game.
Frying Pan Adventures Food Tours in Downtown Abu Dhabi
Twice a week from 4pm to 7pm
This interactive tour led by passionate local guides features a curated culinary route that blends food and art.
Explore authentic Abu Dhabi shops and restaurants while visiting three striking artwork installations from the Biennial. The collaborative experience promises to create a memorable journey for all participants.
You might also like: All you need to know about Abu Dhabi’s first-ever Public Art Biennial
Musical performances
The Biennial will host a series of musical performances at Tania Candiani’s Nomadic Stage throughout the month. These include:
Sunday, 1 December
7.15pm: Bait Al Oud – Trio (Violin, Qanun, Percussion)
8.20pm: Indian Instrumental Ensemble (Sarod, Indian Violin and Tablas) by Malhaar
9.20pm: Karim Atari (Electronic Live Act)
Film Screenings
Black Box Cinema: Outdoor Cinema at Corniche Hub
Monday, 16 to Wednesday, 18 December, 8 to 10 pm
Since 2014, Black Box Cinema – founded and managed by Abu Dhabi-born actor and director Nawaf Al Janahi – has presented Arab short films.
The film forum is among the most important and well attended in the UAE, dedicated to spreading film culture to new circles. Please enjoy this opportunity to experience a careful selection of previously screened films.
Wellness Programmes
1-3 December
For three consecutive Sundays in December, visitors are invited to participate in a variety of wellness activities, designed to rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit alike.
Kundalini Breathwork with Inner Seed at Lake Park
Sunday, 1 December, 9 am
Join the 60-minute transformative kundalini session where breath meets energy. Elevate your spirit, clear your mind, and unlock your inner potential. Please bring your mat and water.
Vinyasa Yoga with Elena (Open Circle Yoga) at Lake Park
Sunday, 8 December, 8 am
Yoga guides you through a continuous sequence of poses, ideal for those looking to improve energy levels and body awareness through mindfulness. This practice is well-suited for individuals with some fitness experience. Please bring your water.
Cold Full Moon Sound Healing & Breathwork Under the Stars with Seven Wellness at Heritage Park
Sunday, 15 December 8 pm
Cold Full Moon Sound Healing & Breathwork Under the Stars with Seven Wellness at Heritage Park. Join us for a transformative evening beneath the December Cold Full Moon, where we will blend the soothing power of sound healing with the calming practice of breathwork.
Surrounded by the quiet beauty of the night sky, this experience will help you release stress, restore balance, and reconnect with your inner peace.
Let the vibrations of sound and the rhythm of your breath guide you to a deeper state of relaxation and healing, while the full moon’s energy enhances the experience.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to align with the lunar energy and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.
For further information, visit paad.ae/biennial
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