A unique wall mural, measuring 20 metres by 3 metres and covering two walls at Abu Dhabi's Volvo Ocean Race (VOR) Destination Village on the Corniche Breakwater, is to go on sale on January 3, the final day of the UAE capital's hosting of the hardy VOR fleet with 50 per cent of the proceeds going to charity.
The mural is being painted by acclaimed French artist Remi Bertoche of Biarritz who has created advertisements for some of the world's biggest brands, commissioned work for Middle Eastern and European royalty and holds awards of honour from the French Government.
Remi, an expert in oil painting canvas and mural and who has created exceptional artworks and exhibitions in luxury resorts and galleries worldwide – was commissioned by the village organisers, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) to create the mural seascape which depicts the emirate's strong maritime heritage links.
The passionate, 37-year-old artist has now completed the outline sketch of his mural and will begin painting it onsite in full view of visitors to the free-to-entry village from December 27th when he returns to the UAE capital after a short festive break home.
"I have tried to include and create harmony between aspects of the Volvo Ocean Race, Abu Dhabi's centuries old maritime heritage and Azzam, the yacht in which Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing is competing in the round-the-world challenge," said Remi. "It will be a unique piece and one which will appeal to anyone who is invested in this emirate's maritime sector." The VOR Destination Village is packed with family fun activities as Abu Dhabi marks its hosting of the hardy VOR fleet and celebrates the emirate's rich maritime history. The village is open daily to visitors from 12 noon until 9pm on weekdays and on weekends from 11am to midnight until January 3. Opening times on December 25th and 31st differ with the village accepting visitors from 4pm until 10pm and from 10am – 8pm respectively.
Once the mural is sold - on the same day, the awe-inspiring VOR fleet departs the UAE capital for Leg 3 of the race to Sanya in China ,Remi will ready for his next commission, again in Abu Dhabi.
Remi will return to the UAE capital mid-January to produce a work of art at the 10th anniversary Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.
He will be painting a major mural of the championship's winners over the past decade and some of the golfing giants that have competed in the annual PGA European Tour event.
"Spectators will be able to watch the painting come to life at the championship," said Remi. "And once again, I will put it on sale at the end of the event with half the proceeds going to a local charity." The Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship runs at Abu Dhabi Golf Club from January 15-18.
Source: WAM