June 02, 2023
In accordance with our gallery's mission to raise awareness about sustainability through the compelling medium of art, Firetti Contemporary is proud to announce a collaborative venture with Nakheel. This partnership aims to curate a series of satellite exhibitions that amplify the voices of artists creating sustainable artworks, effectively expressing the urgent need to protect our planet.
Reflections of Existence is the first exhibition in a series that will take place at Nakheel Mall from the 1st to the 30th of June 2023. This exhibition inaugurates the collaboration between Firetti Contemporary and Nakheel and showcases the captivating sculptures of Helidon Xhixha, namely "Earth" and "Eclisse d’Acciaio."
Curated by Mara Firetti and Celine Azem, this thought-provoking exhibition invites visitors to contemplate the profound interconnectedness between humanity and the environment, emphasizing the pressing need to address climate change and embrace sustainable living. "Reflections of Existence" holds immense importance for our shared commitment towards the betterment of our planet.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands resolutely dedicated to environmental sustainability, exemplified by its unwavering pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Additionally, the UAE has been entrusted with the prestigious role of hosting COP28 (Conference of the Parties), a momentous global summit on climate change. This extraordinary responsibility serves as a powerful testament to the UAE's unwavering dedication to environmental preservation and the adoption of sustainable practices.
Through this exhibition, Firetti Contemporary with the support of Nakheel Mall, contributes to the UAE's commitment to a sustainable future, highlighting the pivotal role of art and culture in fostering awareness and transformative change.
At the heart of the exhibition stands Earth, an artwork by Helidon Xhixha that depicts a world in distress, ravaged by the far-reaching effects of climate change. Created from stainless steel, the sculpture's surface mirrors the ebb and flow of the Earth's oceans, symbolizing the intricate interplay of ecosystems. It serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of rising sea levels, including destructive erosion, flooding of wetlands, contamination of aquifers and agricultural lands, and the loss of vital habitats for diverse species.
In contrast, Eclisse d’Acciaio offers a profound representation of interconnectedness and the delicate equilibrium within ecosystems. Through its split middle, this sculpture embodies the perpetual cycles and evolutionary nature of the natural world. Its reflective surface acts as a metaphorical mirror, encouraging viewers to reflect upon their role in shaping our planet's destiny and inspiring them to make sustainable choices that foster harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.
Reflections of Existence serves as a call to action, urging viewers to contemplate the urgent need for environmental stewardship. Through the works on view, visitors are invited to embrace their responsibility in safeguarding our planet. The beauty and symbolic power of art prompt us to make conscious choices that contribute to the collective effort of preserving our environment for future generations.
Reflections of Existence allows us to discover the profound interconnectedness between our existence and the natural world, offering hope and inspiration for a sustainable future.
