Art lovers in Dubai now have a new destination to appreciate the works of select painters, sculptors and artists from the region and around the world and enjoy art as an essential part of the human experience.
Art Couture, Dubai’s newest art space and gallery, opened its doors at Al Fattan Marine Towers, opposite the Oasis Beach Hotel. The opening of the gallery was marked by an exhibition featuring the creativity of Dubai-based Canadian artist Cynthia Richards (known in the artistic circles as Reta).
Art Couture reflects the vibrancy and growth of 21st century Dubai. Inspired by the emirate’s reputation as one of the fastest growing cosmopolitan cities in the world, Art Couture’s gallery space models itself on the city’s ambitious nature, its visionary creations and its diverse cultures.
According to Bret Cardoz, managing partner of Art Couture, the gallery’s focus is to hold exhibitions and events that offer a thought provoking viewer experience. Cardoz said, “Through this, Art Couture hopes to widen people’s perceptions of art by stimulating an emotional and intellectual connection between the art lovers and the artistic realm.
“We could not have asked for a better opening show than having a renowned artist like Reta showcase her wonderful creations. This is just the beginning and Art Couture, in the days, months and years to come, will feature more acclaimed artists’ creations that will be a treat for all art enthusiasts. We want to encourage our visitors to appreciate the creative brilliance of select painters, sculptors and artists from around the world and ultimately buy some of the works that will enhance the interiors of their homes and offices.”
Art Couture was opened under the auspices of Dr. Habib Al Mulla and was attended by over 200 friends and art lovers from all over the UAE. The befitting exhibition of Cynthia Richards (Reta) added a great deal of vibrancy to the opening. Reta’s art ranges from minimalist abstract to representational abstraction, varying from one extreme to another, while featuring intricate decorative details.
“I use a number of techniques and mediums in my art ranging from watercolors, inks, crayons, acrylics, mixed media and 18-karat gold leaf. Even everyday construction materials and natural elements such as sand become my medium. The more I use my artistic ability, the more creative I get,” said Reta.
When visiting Art Couture, guests will appreciate the creative process apparent in Reta’s work. With her notion that there is no compromise on quality – each piece is unique, often done as a series or as singles in a variety of sizes.
About Cynthia Richards (Reta)
As a child, Cynthia was known as the artist of the family. With her mother’s encouragement and her own desire to create, Cynthia pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and began developing her craft in Canada. While her family’s support pushed her to achieve her artistic qualifications on paper, it is her own creativity, interpretations and experiences of the world that now drive the artist to express her views with no rules attached.
As an artist, Reta’s aim is to connect with visitors of Art Couture using the universal, silent language of art. Without saying a word, Cynthia ‘speaks’ and ‘tells’ viewers a story and expresses her thoughts through her use of vibrant and bold colors; rich reds, intense oranges, peacock blues and heavy blacks. The use of such colors favours the abstract style and creates depth while breaking the empty space of the canvas and the outer space of the viewer, adding excitement to the total visual experience.
