O-Contemporary, founded by H.E. Dr. Obaid Al Ketbi,
and Baró Galeria are proud to announce the launch of their new partnership in Abu Dhabi.
This collaboration aims to foster cultural exchange. The inaugural exhibition, Intersection,
will open on February 5, 2025, bringing together works from internationally acclaimed
artists and emerging regional talents.
This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision to position itself as a leading global hub for
culture and creativity. The emirate has been actively integrating art into public and private
spaces, ensuring that cultural expression is both accessible and transformative. By fostering
meaningful exchanges between artists and communities, Abu Dhabi continues to
build a dynamic and inclu sive artistic ecosystem.
O-Contemporary, a prominent platform based in Abu Dhabi, is dedicated to promoting
contemporary art and facilitating dialogue between local and international artists. Baró
Galeria, founded in 1999 by María Baró, has long been a pioneer in the contemporary art
scene, presenting groundbreaking exhibitions that inspire audiences worldwide. Together,
these two institutions combine their expertise to create an innovative platform connecting
artists across the globe with the U AE’s vibrant cultural landscape.
“This new chapter allows us to further expand our program, presenting bold and innovative
exhibitions that resonate with the dynamic cultural landscape of the Middle
East while providing our artists with a new exhibition space and opportunities in such
a prestigious environment,” says María Baró, founder of Baró Galeria.
The inaugural exhibition, Intersection, curated by Mohammed Al Saqqa, will feature works
by six internationally renowned artists represented by Baró Galeria: Rasheed Araeen (Pakistan),
assume vivid astro focus (Brazil), Elías Crespín (Venezuela), Gary Hill (USA), and
Joana Vasconcelos (France-Portugal). It will also showcase emerging and established artists
from the region, reflecting the shared mission of O-Contemporary and Baró Galeria
to promote local talent while fostering transcultural dialogue.
Intersection symbolizes the blending of cultures, generations, and artistic practices, bridging
global and local art scenes. Through this partnership, O-Contemporary and Baró
Galeria aim to create new opportunities for cultural exchange and contribute to the growth
of the Middle East’s contemporary art movement.
By connecting global artists with regional talent, this collaboration also supports the vision
of Abu Dhabi’s Year of the Community 2025, declared by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed
bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. This national initiative highlights the
importance of fostering unity, inclusion, and cultural dialogue within the emirate. Through
this exhibition, O-Contemporary and Baró Galeria contribute to this vision by creating a
space where artistic exchange strengthens community bonds and enriches Abu Dhabi’s
cultural landscape.