Can you imagine a place where timekeeping becomes an art form? Right here in the vibrant Dubai Mall, nestled amongst high-end fashion boutiques, you’ll find the MAD Gallery Dubai. This isn’t your typical art gallery. MAD, which stands for Mechanical Art Devices, perfectly captures the essence of this unique space. The MAD Gallery Dubai is the largest of MB&F’s galleries, a testament to its captivating blend of horology and art. It opened its doors in January 2016, bringing a new dimension to the Dubai art scene.
MB&F, the creators of MAD Gallery Dubai, wanted to redefine the way we perceive watches. They envisioned timepieces not merely as instruments for telling time, but as three-dimensional kinetic art. This philosophy is evident in the gallery’s collection, which includes MB&F’s own “Horological Machines” and “Legacy Machines.” These are not your grandfather’s watches. They are complex mechanical marvels, pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. The gallery also features co-creations with other artisans. For example, they have table clocks made in collaboration with L’Epée 1839 and music boxes made with Reuge.
MAD Gallery Dubai also showcases carefully curated mechanical art pieces by artists worldwide. The gallery’s architecture and interior design are a work of art themselves. Designed in collaboration with Voltige Design & Architecture, the gallery features a unique “giant lens” as its central element. This lens distorts reflections as you walk past, creating an ever-changing visual experience. The glass display cases housing the watches are equally impressive. They are domed, resembling old science-fiction movies and the domed sapphire crystals of MB&F Machines. These custom-made domes required innovative techniques to create seamless openings for access.
The furniture within the MAD Gallery Dubai was carefully selected to complement the art. Think mid-century modern, with a touch of futuristic flair. The layout of the gallery creates a “discovery path,” guiding visitors through the space. It begins with the most impressive artworks and leads to smaller, more affordable pieces. The lighting is another key element. It is designed to highlight each art piece while maintaining a comfortable atmosphere. The result is a cohesive and harmonious space that showcases the incredible craftsmanship of both MB&F and the featured artists. MAD Gallery Dubai is not just a gallery; it’s an experience.