A bold design for the Arab world from architect Zaha Hadid

Architect Zaha Hadid, scheduled to speak at TED2007 in March, today unveiled plans for a stunning performing arts center in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The center encompasses five individual theaters, and will be one of five major cultural institutions on the new cultural district of Saadiyat Island. "It's an inspiration from nature, and an organic design," Hadid told The New York Times in "Celebrity Architects Reveal a Daring Cultural Xanadu for the Arab World." Hadid will speak during the final session at TED2007: Imagined Futures.

Comments

[bernarda]

The big question that comes up is what is going to be shown in the museum and, especially, what is going to be staged in the five theaters? How likely is it that the content will be as daring as the designs?

If only innocuous run-of-the-mill stuff is presented, what is the point?

[chaser]

her majesty is naked, people.

[Michelle Amador]

I found the last sentence of the article to be the most exciting as far as what their intentions are with the space:

“This is not just about tourism; it also has global cultural dimensions,” Mubarak Muhairi, the director general of the Abu Dhabi tourism authority, said. “We believe the best vehicle for crossing borders is art. And this region is in need of such artistic initiatives.”

Sounds good to me so far - Anyone know when it is slated to open? I didn't see it in the article.

Zaha, can you tell us before March? :)

[MBinDubai]

It is an important statement as to what will be shown inside the theatres, I believe that the commissioning of Zaha Hadid represents a reaching out and recognition to the global creative arts community. The content produced should aim to do the same and I believe it will if this first statement is taken purely on face value.

I would like to see a diverse mixture of cultures, technologies and meidums used within this space. I recently visited London and experienced Carsten Holler installation at the Tate Modern, a private experience with the new Oculas which also captured the imagination, and also the Kylie Minogue representation at the famous V & A. Art is represented through many mediums and I believe that Dubai will benefit from the greatest diversity. I agree that Art is the best vehicle for crossing borders and reaching people in new ways.