Ellington Properties, a leading design-led property developer based in the UAE, said it has commissioned Dubai-based artist Neel Shukla to create a bespoke masterpiece for its award-winning residential development, DT1 in Downtown Dubai.
The collaboration with Shukla, who is also the founder of Four Gallery in Dubai Design District, is part of Ellington Art Foundation’s programme, established in 2015, to showcase the talents and works of regional artists and photographers across its residential projects, said the developer in a statement.
From appointing spaces as an avenue for art display to bringing together aspiring and recognised artists to display their art pieces that reflect local culture and artistry, Ellington Art Foundation is dedicated to promoting the UAE’s contemporary art scene and strengthening Dubai’s position as an international destination of culture, it added.
Gracing the reception lobby of DT1, the distinctive sculpture named ‘The Levitate,’ represents global cultures and a celebration of Dubai’s local culture that has become part of the social fabric and transformed the city into a true metropolis.
The contemporary design of the centrepiece complements DT1’s luxurious interior design and adds to its exceptional lifestyle experience.
Managing Director Robert Booth said: "Through our partnership with Shukla, we aim to bring a truly immersive and inspiring work of art that inspires DT1 residents and visitors. As a design-led developer, we differentiate our developments, especially by incorporating art as an essential part of our lifestyle environments."
"Through the work of Ellington Art Foundation, we are further empowering the UAE’s art community by engaging local aspiring and emerging artists. Home to over 200 nationalities, Dubai’s amazing cultural diversity is reflected in Shukla’s sculpture that will delight all," he added.
On the tieup, Shukla said: "It gives me great satisfaction and honour to be part of the DT1 project. I feel extremely fortunate to be associated with such a prestigious development and an incredibly distinguished incentive to promote local artists and talent."
An art consultant, artist and interior designer with over two decades of experience in the industry, Shukla has worked on residential palaces and various hospitality projects including the Burj Al Arab, Grosvenor House Dubai, Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, W Hotel The Palm and Radisson Red Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Raised in Dubai, Shukla’s father, renowned photographer Ramesh Shukla, has spent over 50 years capturing the leaders of the UAE and documenting the nation’s history including the iconic photograph ‘Spirits of the Union’.
Taking cue from his father, Shukla draws inspiration from local UAE traditions and nature for his installations and artworks.
His eye for design and practicality has made him an influencer and consultant in the UAE’s art industry.
"My inspiration for this piece is truly a reflection of the foundation’s very same concept of supporting talent and diversity within our medley of cultures and distinct expression," remarked Shukla.
"Art is timeless and boundless, and it will continue to bridge societies and generations if we do our share to encourage it," he added.
The Levitate is a combination of fundamental shapes formed by compound curves, angular geometries, and the intersection of contrasting volumes. Its abstract nature and interconnections create an eclectic oeuvre of collective shapes with reflective light casually bouncing off its metallic surface, explained Shukla.
The sculpture suspended by very fine cables from the ceiling and supported from within forms an illusion that appears to defy gravity when viewed from particular angles, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
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