Louvre Abu Dhabi has partnered with global technology brand HONOR to enhance the visitor experience for its latest exhibition, Kings and Queens of Africa: Forms and Figures of Power.
Curated in collaboration with Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac and France Muséums, Kings and Queens of Africa examines the political, cultural, and spiritual significance of African rulers through a collection of sculptures, regalia, and textiles. The exhibition includes artifacts from some of Africa’s most influential historical kingdoms, including Ife and Benin in present-day Nigeria, the Kongo kingdom in Central Africa, and the Zulu monarchy in Southern Africa. These works, many of which have rarely been exhibited outside their countries of origin, offer insight into the ways African rulers projected power and legitimacy through artistic expression.
Running until May 25, 2025, the exhibition marks a significant milestone as the first major showcase in the UAE dedicated to African monarchies. Featuring over 350 artifacts, the exhibition provides a historical and artistic exploration of the visual and material culture associated with African royal power.
The collaboration with HONOR introduces artificial intelligence (AI) as a key component of the exhibition, utilizing the brand’s latest HONOR Magic7 Pro to document artifacts in high resolution, offer interactive digital insights, and also provide visitors with an immersive navigational experience. This partnership marks the first time a technology brand has collaborated with Louvre Abu Dhabi in this capacity, underscoring the growing role of AI in shaping museum experiences.
Alongside historical objects, contemporary works by African artists further provide a modern perspective on the themes of sovereignty, identity, and heritage. The juxtaposition of historical and contemporary pieces allows for a deeper engagement with the evolving narratives surrounding African leadership and also representation.
HONOR’s involvement in the exhibition reflects a broader trend of technological integration within cultural institutions. By incorporating AI-powered tools, Louvre Abu Dhabi seeks to enhance accessibility and engagement, particularly for audiences less familiar with the historical context of African monarchies.
The partnership also signifies a strategic move for HONOR, positioning the brand at the intersection of technology and cultural heritage. As museums increasingly adopt digital tools to broaden audience engagement, collaborations of this nature highlight the potential for AI-driven solutions to transform how art and history are experienced.
