GCC property boom drives fine art collecting

The building of five million new housing units across the Gulf is essential to meet the needs of the growing number of national residents and rising influx of expatriates. The UAE alone has seen 44,000 new housing units completed in 2007.

The vast majority of the homes are priced in excess of $500,000, with up to 20 percent of new homes priced at or beyond the $3m mark.

These new home owners, many of whom own multiple homes, look to decorate them to a very high standard and often work with multiple international galleries in establishing collections.

"After all of the extraordinary architectural development, the focus on interiors will be next, making this an ideal time to launch 'Art & Antiques Dubai' " said Giles Haughton, Event Director.

"It is an exciting part of the world with its proximity to rapidly developing GCC neighbors, as well as the Indian sub continent. We are pleased that many of the world's top dealers will be participating."

Ronald Phillips Ltd of London, one of the world's most prestigious antique dealers, specialising in the finest 18th and 19th century English furnishings, has joined the already impressive exhibitor line-up at Art and Antiques Dubai.

Simon Phillips, who has run the business for the past 12 years since taking over from his father, with be leading his team in Dubai.

Commenting on Art and Antiques Dubai, Simon Phillips said "The show affords us an ideal opportunity to meet more intimately with new and existing buyers. And, having exhibited previously with the Haughtons, we are certain that the event will be of the very highest calibre."

With several internationally acclaimed top quality pieces and exceptional works of design art confirmed for display, the fair offers an exclusive opportunity to regional art collectors and high end interior designers to develop world class art collections.

In recent years, Ronald Phillips has made numerous high-profile sales, an example being The Newcastle Side Tables. This highly important pair of George I carved gesso and giltwood side tables, with rectangular black lacquer tops decorated with exotic birds and trees, were made in England circa 1720.

Pieces going to Dubai will include pairs of mirrors, gilt tables, lacquer bureau bookcases, gilt console tables, jardinières, centre tables, and globes.

Other participating galleries set to attract affluent art buyers and high-end decorators will include prominent international names like Cristina Grajales Inc., a New York-based gallery specializing in 20th century decorative arts, contemporary art, design, and residential and commercial furniture pieces. Grajales' gallery will be exhibiting the works of Christophe Come, a contemporary furniture and lighting designer from Paris.

"We are participating at 'Art and Antiques Dubai' because we think this part of the world is very promising," commented Cristina. "The thirst for culture that the people have in the Middle East is amazing, and we want to be part of the growth and development in Dubai."

Other top quality works will include the very best from Philip and Kelvin Laverne, a father and son team, who were the first to really move between art and design. Globally reputed, they have carried out incredible commissions and have catered to important figures like Jackie and Aristotle Onassis.

Regional art collectors are distinguished by their preference for rare objects d'art which are of world class quality and unique design. 'Art & Antiques Dubai' will offer the highest caliber of premium antiques and art, making this fair a 'must attend' event on the GCC art calendar.