SiteOwner, Author at The Majlis Gallery - Haven for Artists AND Art Lovers.

SPIRITED BREEDS

A photographic exhibition under the gracious

Patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Hissa bint Sultan

bin Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Limited edition equine photogravure etchings

and large format archival prints of exotic species by

International Photographer Astrid Harrisson.

21st JANUARY – 17th FEBRUARY 2017 , 10am – 6pm

Astrid’s vision is simple and clear for all who view her bold yet graceful portraits of animals. She presents compassion and empathy for her subjects, her talents behind the lens perhaps playing second-place to the sense of nostalgia she evokes with her intimate studies and the simplicity with which she presents them.

Astrid’s powerful imagery appeals to a global audience, her fine art prints now held by private collectors around the world. During 2010 and 2011 Astrid began to develop a global following during the documenting of over seventy of the world’s most important breeds of horse in order to illustrate iconic book title The Majesty of the Horse, written by Tamsin Pickeral and published globally in 2012.

Her Highness Sheikha Hissa bint Sultan bin Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan recognizes Astrid’s rare and remarkable talent to capture the spirit and beauty of horses and is proud to put this collection at the forefront of her artistic Patronage.

Sheikha Hissa, an Arabian Horse Breeder and lover of the arts, has a life-long background in the horse world as well as an interest and education in the arts. Since meeting Astrid she has become a fond supporter of her work – in particular her collection of etchings.

“Astrid’s skill lies in her ability to capture the exterior physical beauty as well as the ethereal inner beauty of the horse through the artistry of her images”. Sheikha Hissa.

Click here to see the Portfolio

December is a busy month at The Majlis Gallery

Our big room is full of

New works from our New Orientalists. John R Harris, Trevor Waugh, Martin Giesen, Spencer Tart, Paul Wadsworth and many others. We are also introducing a collection of fabulous oil paintings by Faramarz Mokhtarpour.

Mountain Spring oil on canvas 90 x 60 by Faramarz Mokhtarpour

To make room for this show we have moved our Art Shack Bargains into the front room.
Great fun to be had in here !

Nick Bashall will be working on commissions in his studio

Nick Bashall is no stranger to Dubai, he lived and worked here in the late 80’s and early 90’s both as a lawyer and a painter. It is as the latter that most people remember him especially for the many charismatic family portraits he completed in both charcoal and oil.

Sitting for a Portrait
Is not as intimidating as it sounds in fact it is a rather cathartic experience. Nick builds from the structure up, the image literally emerges from the paper or canvas. Anticedents as well as descendants appear during the process with the finished portrait being something that goes deeper than a pure likeness.

Prices for a head and Shoulders
Charcoal Dhms
Child 7,500
Adult 12,750

Oil
Child 21,000
Adult 37,000

He will also be giving workshops on 12-13-14 December, 10am to 4pm

These will replicate the typical short overview course he has taught for years in England, using the teaching techniques that were employed by art schools in the late nineteenth and first half of the twentieth century, before such teaching was almost entirely abandoned in Europe. Instruction will be in the following basic principles that underlie all drawing and painting from life: 650 Dhms Per Day including a light lunch.

Day One: Proportion, Line, Volume and Movement

Day Two: Dark and light

Day Three: Colour

To book a course or commission a portrait call Alison Collins on 050 4503853

All this plus some unique gifts for every pocket, from hand blocked scarves made in Jaipur to silver jewellry from the Sahara and beautifully presented silk spice squares made in the UAE.

The Majlis Gallery is a wonderful place to bring family and friends, a place to browse in peace and tranquility away from the hurly burly of the shopping malls.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Peter Hayes

“ I have always been interested in the history of ceramics – why and how ‘things’ are made of clay. This interest was extended after I spent several years travelling through Africa working with various tribes and village potters and being intrigued how, with limited technology and basic tools, they were able to get such exquisite, beautiful surfaces. I found the same inherent skills in India, Nepal Japan and New Mexico. I tried to adopt the ideas picked up from my travels in my own work. By building up layers of textured clay combined with burnishing and polishing of surfaces, I try to achieve opposites of rough and smooth.

I have been working on large scale ceramic forms which I have placed in the landscape. My main aim is that the work should not compete with the landscape, but evolve within the environment. With this in mind I have introduced other minerals into the Raku ceramic surface such as iron and copper. With the elements of time and erosion, the individual piece takes on its own developing surface.

Recently, one of these large commissions has taken me again to India. Ananya Singhal suggested I make it on site. Now I have discovered Udaipur in Rajasthan where I come for inspiration, when my studio in Bath in England gets cold in the winter months. This has introduced me to other artists and craftsmen enabling me to work with a range of different materials, such as glass, marble, stone and Damascus steel.

In practice I go by the seat of my pants. I have always worked this way, not going by any particular rules or methods.

I find it joyful to work with many different materials. Each has its own character, its own limits, its own tolerance – some materials fight back,

some play the game. Finally I think it’s the material that is in charge and it will only let you make what it wants.

It is my job to push it to its limits and somehow an equilibrium is made between maker and material.”

Faramarz Mokhtarpour

Dr. Faramarz Mokhtarpour was born in Mashhhad, Iran in 1964 into a family who loved art and culture. He was interested in painting from early childhood, drawing with perception from what he saw around him. He gradually experienced working with watercolor and gouache, winning first prize in many painting competitions across the country.

Family circumstances and academic talent led him to his college major course in 1982 when he was accepted in Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. In 1989 he graduated as a medical doctor but he never deserted his artistic talents. Faramarz used every spare opportunity to observe, draw and paint. Guided by contemporary masters such as Espahbodi and Mohseni Kermanshahi and with further help from art textbooks and inspiration from Mother Nature he developed his career as a painter alongside that of being a doctor. Family connections in the UAE brought him to our door and we are delighted to have him join our group of New Orientalist painters.

Faramarz’s particular interest in nature is reflected in many of his works. Realism with tendencies to impressionism result in works that have an extreme sense of peace and deep reverence for the wonders of the natural world.

Intimate Objects from Saturday 15th of October

The Majlis Gallery is the place for anything Fine Art related. An oasis of tranquility but buzzing with creativity.
Small is beautiful, from our earliest years we learn to collect little things that catch our eyes. A shell, an acorn, feathers, stones, as we grow older this intuitive habit never leaves us. That is what this exhibition Intimate Objects all about. Small intimate eye catching tactile objects that are just asking to be added to your collection.
We have brought together small works from, amongst others, Patricia Millns, Peter Hayes, Carole Grace, Hans Loots, Mustafa Ali, Lynette ten krooden, Junko Yamamoto and Sanna Swatt.

Peter Hayes – Carole Grace – Patricia Millns

Martin Giesen

Born and schooled in Germany, Martin Giesen started to paint at age 15. After school he studied art history at Heidelberg University. For a year he interned at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York followed by the completion of a PhD.

With marriage and children, Giesen entered into a career of university teaching. He has taught in Lebanon (AUB 1973-85), Saudi Arabia, Canada, and since 1997 in the UAE, where he was founding dean of the School of Architecture & Design at the American University of Sharjah. For some 35 years, Giesen has produced and exhibited watercolor paintings documenting the impact of development on the environment.

His paintings produced in Lebanon during the years of the civil war received critical acclaim. His work has been shown in solo exhibits in Lebanon, Germany, Canada and the UAE. David Tannous, Washington corresponding editor for Art in America, called Giesen a “contemporary orientalist”.

Martin has the ability to “get under the skin” of a place and a culture. His paintings have “spirit” telling a story of a specific environment at a specific time, narratives that are more than just visual illustrative records.His paintings are to be found hanging in many prestigious collections around the world.

New Romance in Dubai’s Bastakiya Quarter

A Meeting Of Hearts & Minds (click here to read full article)

The Majlis Gallery is unarguably the cornerstone of the affair that’s blossomed between Bastakiya and art. A labor of love that dates back to 1978, the gallery began life as expat Alison Collins’ family home, slowly opening its doors to a motley crew of creative acquaintances, amateur artists and professional painters. Living up to its Arabic name, the gallery soon became a relaxed meeting place for artists and art lovers. The fabled Villa Number 19 could well be credited with laying the seeds for an artistic journey in this city, one that today manifests itself in such headline-grabbing projects as Art Dubai.

Majlis is home to a fascinating array of media with collections ranging from acrylics and calligraphy to lithography, photography, sculptures and of course, paintings. A much-coveted affair, the gallery’s Artist In Residence program has allowed global artisans to stay, live, breathe and create while being immersed in the potent flavors of Arabia from this unique vantage point. Over the years, the Majlis has done exceptionally well in bringing over artists of international standing, showcasing some exceptional works from the likes of Emily Gordon, Morteza Darehbaghi, Nitin Dadrawala and Sacha Jafri.

ART SHACK BARGAINS

The Hot Season has to bring some compensations.

Here at The Majlis Gallery its the time of year that we have bargains in our

ART SHACK

Art Shack

Our main gallery is full to bursting with work from all of our key artists with every piece at

HALF PRICE

By their very nature artists are creators, never thinking of the end product let alone selling it. This is where galleries come in.

A bi product of all this creativity is a lot of stock that is by no means sub standard it merely means it hasn’t found a new home yet. Artists, like all of us can get hungry sometimes, being fairly sensible creatures they agree to lower the price tag on their work.

Everyone loves a bargain and we can guarantee that bargains abound in our Art Shack. Hours of browsing through the “Stack in the Shack” await.

As does a cooling glass of lemonade in our shady courtyard

Works by 20th Century masters come together

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The Top 10 Things To Do In Bur Dubai

When on vacation, everyone wants to make the most of their well-earned trip. In the luxurious region of Bur Dubai, there are always attractions to keep you occupied as well as to make you appreciate the country not only for its cosmopolitan vibes but its colonial, traditional origins as well. Here’s our list of the top ten things to do while in this gem of an area

Al Bastakiya

Bastakia Quarter

Immerse yourself in the history of Dubai by visiting one of its oldest buildings, a respected cultural heritage site that was constructed during the 19th century by the Persians. Hence the name, taken from the eponymous town in southern Iran. The picturesque monuments have since been declared a conservation site where tourists can now roam the pedestrianized alleys and admire several restored buildings featuring wind towers, an ingenious creation that functioned as a ventilation system.

The sandy edifices are homes to a select few; however others have been exposed to the public. These include the Dubai Museum, an aromatic Arabian tea house, and galleries showcasing the most obscure yet breathtaking masterpieces from artists all over the world.

Exhibit at Dubai Museum

Dubai Museum

Encased within the recently restored Al Fahidi Fort, built in 1799 as a tactic of defense against invasion, the Dubai Museum endeavors to indoctrinate tourists into the culture and heritage of the city. At only 3 AED per head, this exhibition is a steal for those desiring to witness the drastic transformation of a once-sparse desert to a thriving metropolis.

Housed underground, the detailed dioramas of certain events in history such as the pearl trade offer an escape from the sweltering heat. The models are a clever attempt to reenact those pivotal moments and entertain the public as well as educate them.

Al Fahidi Fort

Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

Ideal for those in awe of the culture, customs and religion that dominate the United Arab Emirates, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding strives to spread awareness of these concepts by offering an impressive range of lectures and exhibits, all focusing on the topics of Islam and the UAE while sampling a traditional Arabic breakfast (served on Mondays and Wednesdays at 10am) and listening to natives demystify certain cultural customs.

They operate under the philosophy and motto “Open doors, open minds,” so why not curb your inquisition at an open Q&A discussion” Moreover, any female tourists can wear hijabs (traditional headscarf worn by Muslim women). This is your opportunity to become culturally enlightened in an innovative manner, a definite motive for visiting the Bastakia Quarter.

Al Bastakiya Dubai

Majlis Gallery

For artists and art lovers seeking an outlet to appreciate the work of others, the Majlis Gallery is indeed paradise. Ever since its inauguration in 1989, the Majlis (meaning a common meeting place) has promoted the masterpieces of artists from a multitude of countries and has evolved into a premier establishment that is ideal for creative minds to unite.

Also situated at the Al Fahidi neighbourhood, the gallery features many exhibitions including artist Udhaybhanu’s portfolio of photography. As a self-proclaimed environmental activist, the photographer uses nature as his muse to project his thoughtful interpretations of his surroundings. Be awe-inspired by the range of talents that are showcased here. Perhaps it could awaken a hidden talent ?

Souk

Old Souk

This is a traditional market in Bur Dubai, home to an array of stores selling fabrics and footwear along with souvenirs and clothes. The shops in Bur Dubai’s Textile Souk are thought to be a treasure trove of textiles, exuberant bursts of color, textures and handmade weaves from around the world.

Peruse the souk (Arabic word for market) and purchase ornate ornaments to adorn your shelves along with fascinating pieces of haberdashery including shimmering threads and velvety materials. With a a lot to choose from, your options are limitless so why not practice the art of negotiation when frequenting this market?

Heritage Village

The Dubai Heritage Village

Any travelers with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge will flock to this informative site in search of the traditional ways of life and origins of this beautiful city. Built in 1997 at the Al Shindagha historic neighborhood, the village’s main aim was to display the traditional customs, traditions, professions and local craftsmanship of the country. The Heritage Village is visited by many who have a great opportunity to live and familiarize themselves with the different styles of local life. Moreover, the visitors obtain an insight into how the different professions are practiced and carried out.

The village is a host to a traditional medicine clinic during the tourist season between October and March allowing patients the chance to be treated by homeopathic doctors, retaining a legacy of experience and expertise. Don’t miss the chance to buy a handmade trinket from gifted craftsmen who dabble in whistle making, jewelry making and cotton trading. The visitors can also enjoy live performances of Arabian folklore such as Razfa, Ayyala, Harbeya and El-Dan, in addition to the dances that root back to Africa.

Dhow Crusie

Dhow Cruise Dinner

Grab the opportunity to ride in a magnificent dhow (boat) and your evening will come alive with the jewels of Dubai. The Dhow Cruise can easily showcase the unique charm the city has. Ensure you capture all that you see with your camera. Featuring a fascinating view of the Dubai Creek, a ride on a decorated traditional style dhow is definitely an experience to cherish.

The elegant moonlight sets the ideal ambiance for an intimate dinner for two or a much-needed family bonding session. This tour also provides guests with a delectable buffet dinner with traditional as well as international dishes to please your palates.

Spice Bazar

Meena Bazaar

A true haven for any shopaholics looking for unique pieces of jewelry and accessories, Meena Bazaar has it all, from its extensive selection of gold products taking the form of necklaces, ornaments and earrings to intricately designed bags that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Visitors can commute easily via the metro and obtain original souvenirs at negotiable prices. The market is a safe and secure place, so shop with ease and approach all stalls as they all sell something different including clothes, trinkets and electronic items. Treat yourself to the scrumptious street foods on sale and allow Meena Bazaar to be the ideal end to a picture perfect vacation.

Dolphins

Dolphin Bay

The perfect venue for a family outing, Dolphin Bay is known to be the largest and most contemporary dolphin habitat in the world. Choose from a variety of dolphin interactions that are suitable for all ages. If you don’t want to swim, you can stand in shallow water. Those who are advanced swimmers can scuba dive alongside these intelligent creatures.

Sign up for a royal swim package for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to be gracefully towed along the waters by the dolphins themselves or pick up an observer’s pass to admire the charismatic animals from afar. Children can enroll in classes to learn more about the anatomy of dolphins which can not only aid in their development but increase their empathy for all animals.

Dubai Global Village

Global Village

Think it’s impossible to travel the world in under 24 hourrs” Think again! Global village offers a series of mini market stalls offering food from dozens of countries and cultures, along with the exciting opportunities to scour through all the stores and capture these remarkable memories on camera.

Feel that exhilarating rush of adrenaline while taking your turn on the amusement rides and marvel at the majestic musical fountain, usually synchronized with the latest pop songs that are guaranteed to get you tapping your feet to the beat. An innovative way to familiarize oneself with the cuisine of other regions of the world and unites all as one.