September has arrived, and Alserkal Avenue in Dubai is rolling out new art, food concepts and cultural programmes. From 13 gallery exhibitions to a new modular lab space and public screenings, here’s a breakdown of what’s happening this month.
Nima Nabavi’s CHRONOCHROMA debuts
Geometry, colour and time are at the centre of Nima Nabavi’s new video work CHRONOCHROMA, which will be displayed on The Yard’s outdoor screens on 18 September.
- Location: The Yard
- Date: 18 September
- Format: Video Art
Nabavi, known for intricate geometric works, shifts his practice into moving images for this debut, reflecting on the passage of time in an immersive form.
Shabab Laboratory launches at WH 30
Shabab International is opening its first modular space, called Shabab Laboratory, at Warehouse 30. The new spot brings together creative disciplines under one roof.
- Features: Pop-ups, a listening room, workshop space, library and shop
- Opening: 18 September
- Venue: WH 30
This multi-purpose hub is designed to grow organically with artists and audiences, giving them a flexible platform for collaboration.
Food and community highlights
Several new concepts add flavour to the Avenue this month.
- The Growhouse (WH 7): seasonal dishes using produce from its indoor farm
- Middle Child (WH 13A): community dining with a large cookbook collection
- Piehaus (WH 22A): sweet and savoury pies, baked fresh
These venues add to Alserkal’s mix of culture and food, offering spaces to connect over meals and ideas.
Talks and conversations
Three public conversations are set for 18 September:
- Ose Ekore & Abeer Sultan at Efie Gallery, 5PM
- Nazgol Ansarinia & Lucas Morin at Alserkal Arts Foundation, 6PM
- The Twentieth Line: Mythic Beginnings at The Third Line, 7PM
These talks bring together artists and curators to reflect on their practices, history, and the role of art spaces in the region.
Cinema and workshops
Film and writing programmes continue at Cinema Akil and Alserkal Arts Foundation.
- Balomania public screening, 18 September, 7PM
- Every Feminist Reading is an Edit writing workshop, 21 September, 4PM
- Blackbird film programme, 26–28 September
Cinema Akil’s lineup mixes public screenings with curated programmes, while the workshop at the Common Room provides a space for critical writing.
The Third Line turns 20
Marking its 20th anniversary, The Third Line gallery presents The Only Way Out is Through: The Twentieth Line. This retrospective traces two decades of exhibitions and milestones.
A special talk with co-founders Sunny Rahbar and Claudia Cellini, curator Shumon Basar and writer Tirdad Zolghadr will take place on 18 September at 7PM.
What is the highlight of Alserkal Avenue’s September programme?
Nima Nabavi’s CHRONOCHROMA video work at The Yard and the launch of Shabab Laboratory at WH 30 are standout highlights.
Are there food options at Alserkal Avenue this month?
Yes, new spots like Middle Child, Piehaus and The Growhouse are open alongside existing cafés and restaurants.
How long will The Third Line’s 20th anniversary show run?
The exhibition opens in September, with details available directly from The Third Line’s calendar.
