The beginning of October witnessed Sotheby's exhibition of six paintings by artists of different artistic styles – from Surrealism to Impressionism to Post-Impressionism. The works ranged from Vincent Van Gogh’s to Frida Kahlo’s masterpieces. This marked one of the most valuable exhibitions and auctions ever held in Abu Dhabi, at an estimated value of 150 million USD.

Among the showcased works, Frida Kahlo’s surrealist masterpiece El sueño (La cama) (The Dream (The Bed))* is expected to reach an estimated price of 40 to 60 million USD and set a new record for a female artist’s work sold at a Sotheby’s auction.

The other five paintings displayed were: Camille Pissarro’s Bords de l’Oise à Pontoise (1872) (The Banks of the Oise at Pontoise); Vincent van Gogh’s Romans Parisiens (Les Livres Jaunes) (1887) (Parisian Novels (The Yellow Books)); Paul Gauguin’s La Maison de Pen du, gardeuse de vache (1889) (The House of Pen du, Cowherd); Edvard Munch’s Sankthansnatt Johannisnacht (Mittsommernacht) (circa 1901–03) (St. John’s Night (Midsummer Night’s Eve)); René Magritte’s Le Jockey perdu (1962) (The Lost Jockey). The name Exquisite Corpus comes from the art technique and game exquisite corpse, in which different artists successively contribute to an artwork or sentence, knowing only a specific rule or what occurred just before their turn. Taking inspiration from preceding inputs creates a transcendental final work. Sotheby’s describes it as “a cohesion that transcends the sum of its interwoven parts.” Visitors to the exhibition appreciated the diverse beauty of the featured pieces in different ways. Sourab, who visited upon recommendation, found himself captivated by the strong colors in Gauguin’s painting. “I think the most visually striking element is the contrast in colors. They are vibrant colors, but they are still subtle; vibrant, and yet muted.” he said.

Description: Paul Gauguin (1848–1903), La Maison de Pen du, gardeuse de vache, signed P. Gauguin and dated 1889 (lower right). Photo courtesy of Sotheby's

“It is out of my price range,” laughed Jazz, a UAE resident who came after seeing advertisements. “But it’s lovely to just experience it here in Abu Dhabi for just a couple of days.” When asked about her favorite piece, she pointed to van Gogh’s, citing the connection it brings her - the colors draw you in, yet the mysterious contents of the books leave you questioning and reflecting.

The myriad of reasons that drew different audience members makes it clear Exquisite Corpus had a profound effect on the artistic community and Abu Dhabi residents, demonstrating the power of art to create unity while changing perspectives.