Formula1 is big draw for art lovers in Abu Dhabi

An inspiring exhibition by 13 international artists who use a variety of innovative mediums inspired by one central theme – Formula 1 racing – go on show in Abu Dhabi this week.

From ‘Rubikscubism’ to painting with Mobil 1 oil, to designing colourful racing helmets and creating art from car tires – each artist uses  life experiences and skills to find an unusual and inspiring way of portraying this glamorous, exciting and high speed sport.

The event, at the Ghaf Gallery, is part of Yasalam Live Across the City, an entertainment programme constructed around next month’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Children from schools across the emirate were challenged to engage in with the F1 and create their own racing-inspired art.  More than 80 of these canvases are now on show alongside the famous works.

“From the slick carbon fiber sculptures of F1 mechanic-turned-artist Alastair Gibson to the colourful work of David Hyde, the exhibition brings racing to life with an unforgettable and mind-blowing collection.  Art is a wonderful way to express passion, and I look forward to residents and visitors in Abu Dhabi enjoying the exhibition and looking at F1 in an entirely new way,” said Jalal Luqman, co-owner of Ghaf Gallery. 

Visitors to the gallery are invited to explore the idea of motorsport not only as a spectator sport, but also as an artistic and interactive medium with images, video footage and sculptures using mechanical motor parts, remote control cars and a full-sized McLaren Mercedes.

“The Art of Racing Galleria showcases some truly innovative artists – who take the thrill of racing to an entirely new medium,” said John Lickrish, Managing Director of Flash. “It is fantastic to see international artists and local children coming together here in Abu Dhabi, as excitement builds towards the final race of the season.” 

The Art of Racing Galleria runs until November 14.

Artists

Rainer Schlegelmilch: With an archive of over 500,000 images and having been up close and personal to the action at over 500 races, photographer Schlegelmilch’s collection is one of chaos and action. Capturing the scenes in monochrome and colour stills, his work depicts all things F1 - from pit lane changes to the drama of the finish line.

Michel Comte: Best known for his work in fashion and lifestyle, photographer Comte exhibits a frank, honest and intimate portrayal of everyday life in F1. Not only working for the likes of Armani, D&G and Nike, Comte boasts an impressive 15 year relationship with motorsport, photographing some of Formula 1's true greats.

Jill Bradley: A London-based artist specialising in portraiture, Bradley was commissioned to paint a series of F1 portraits during the 2005/06 seasons.  Following the drivers and their teams to races around the globe, her collection includes 28 drivers and leading F1 figures, all painted in oil on canvas.

Eric-Jan Kremer: Internationally recognized, Kremer paints with vivid brush strokes and splash like techniques to create a three-dimensional experience. Popular with well known names and F1 teams, his work can be seen on walls at the Silverstone track. Capturing the real movement of the race, his oil paintings appear to jump out from the canvas and collide with the viewer.

Armin Flossdorf: The main focus of this collection is action and movement.  Recognised within the motorsport scene, Flossdorf has equipped many VIP lounges in the motorsport scene and performed live-paintings at several F1 events.  His art has also become part of an international motorsport calendar, well received among fans and the F1 society.

Colin Carter:A motor racing fan since childhood, Colin Carter has experienced life behind the wheel. Later turning to the canvas, Cater paints photo perfect oil paintings and can often be seen working live at the races. Commissioned by the likes of Sir Stirling Moss and Michael Schumacher, he is a renowned figure within the F1 scene and his work has been used by Ferrari.

David Macaluso: David Macaluso is an oil painter from United States and has immortalised Lewis Hamilton. Using the actual oil that drove Hamilton to his championship title in 2008, Macaluso was signed by sponsor Vodafone.  Continuing to work in the innovative medium of Mobil 1 motor oil, his paintings possess an interesting and inventive texture.

AzkoNobel: Thinking outside the box, AzkoNobel wondered what would happen if Lewis Hamilton’s McLaren Mercedes was driven through 1,200 litres of paint!  After many months of preparation and a painstaking series of preparations, his 50-metre canvases show the fruits of his labour with dramatic effect.

Alastair Gibson: Lead F1 mechanic-turned-sculptor Gibson previously worked for Benetton and Honda Grand. Transferring his knowledge of cars to art, Gibson has created a series of slick and perfectly formed carbon fiber sculptures that combine technology and nature.

Olivia Davis: Olivia Davis is a painter who uses industrial shapes in her work. Exploring the balance between mechanical shapes and design, Davis’ collection is a dynamic cocktail of colours with fascinating effect.

Michel Collet: Michel Collet’s work is one of incredible detail. Isolating and defining iconic aspects of racing cars, he transforms car parts into genuine works of art. Taking essential elements from them, he freeze frames racing for eternity.

Art Rotondo:Art Rotondo is a well-known artist amongst motorsport drivers, with his collection catching the attention of heroes such as Schmacher, Hamiliton and Alonso. Using helmets as his canvas, he captures the speed and thrill of motorsport with unsurpassed techniques.

Ian Cook: The truly innovative techniques of artist Ian Cook make for an impressive collection. Soaking the wheels of remote control cars in acrylic paint, Cook drives up to 50 cars around his canvas producing unusual markings. A spectator sport in itself, his method of working provides a great source of entertainment.

David Hyde: Known as CIX, Hyde is a modern contemporary English artist who creates pieces made entirely out of Rubik Cubes. The art of RubikCubism is gaining rapid popularity worldwide and Hyde is a frontrunners in  this art form. The Art of Racing Galleria will display 4 specially commissioned F1™ themed Rubikcubicm creations.

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