The Third Line is a contemporary art gallery in Alserkal Avenue, Dubai, focused on artists from the Middle East and its diaspora. Its changing exhibitions range across forms including photography, sculpture, video and installation, with work by both established names and emerging artists. The gallery occupies two levels, with a more intimate upper space and a larger lower gallery. Alongside exhibitions, it runs talks, workshops and performances, and publishes art books in English and Arabic. Check its website before you go to see what is currently on display or scheduled.
A platform for artists from the region
The Third Line opened in 2005, created by Sunny Rahbar, Claudia Cellini and Omar Ghobash. The founders wanted to increase the visibility of Arab and Iranian artists in international galleries. The gallery’s programme now represents contemporary artists from the Middle East and its diaspora, including established practitioners and emerging voices. Its exhibitions explore different practices and perspectives rather than a single medium. Depending on the programme, you may encounter photography, sculpture, video or installation. Artists associated with the gallery include Farah Al Qasimi, Abbas Akhavan, Hassan Hajjaj and Laleh Khorramian. The roster and exhibitions change, so check what is showing before your visit.
Two levels in Alserkal Avenue
The gallery moved to Alserkal Avenue in 2016. Its industrial premises cover two levels, with a smaller, more intimate gallery upstairs and a larger exhibition space below. The different rooms give exhibitions room to take varied forms, from works suited to close viewing to installations that occupy more space. Alserkal Avenue is the gallery’s address in Dubai’s creative district. The Third Line is located at Unit H 78. Its exhibitions consider how artists from the region are represented internationally, and their subjects can include identity, memory, politics and social change. The specific work on view depends on the current exhibition.
More than exhibitions
The Third Line’s programme extends beyond the gallery rooms. Talks, workshops and performances create opportunities to engage with art through discussion and events. The gallery also runs non-profit programmes connected to art, film, music and literature. Publishing is another part of its work. Its art books appear in English and Arabic, and the on-site store carries books and limited-edition prints by affiliated artists. Check the gallery’s website for exhibition details and upcoming events before visiting, as the programme changes.
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Where is The Third Line in Dubai?
It is at Unit H 78, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai.
What kind of art is shown at The Third Line?
The gallery presents contemporary artists from the Middle East and its diaspora. Exhibitions can include photography, sculpture, video and installation.
Does The Third Line host events?
Yes. Its programme includes talks, workshops and performances. Check the gallery website for upcoming events.
When is a good time to visit The Third Line?
Weekdays are a good choice if you want to avoid the larger weekend crowds.
