Did you have fun at Art Dubai with Lauren Devine? …While you two were held up at customs, we had our eye on Abdullah Al-Mutairi’s new work at the Global Art Forum, and we’re excited to post it.

“!!!ربحت معانا” is an ad series that analyzes the concept of the Gulf identity bubble and a sense of entitlement that has plagued the Gulf Arab states post-oil boom in a call-in gameshow’s framework. Comparable to the rise of post-World War II consumerist TV gameshows in the U.S., these popular gameshows act as public pacifying telecasts and frantic distractions from bleak times. Visually, the post-millennium Gulf gameshow utilizes live and 3D animated stock footage to create a futuristic mixture of religion and technology reflecting quintessential Gulf multimedia aesthetics. The advertising inventory typically features angelic rolling clouds clashing with electronic devices and cash over Islamic hymns and “You’re a winner!” shouts. These ads push Westernization and materialism as modernity, tailoring the technique of delivery and overall attitude to entertain the local conservative community. In most cases, simply getting through to the operator of your corresponding Gulf country’s phone number guarantees the caller a valuable prize*. It’s true, the best things in life ARE free!

Call in now, you’re already a winner!!!!!

*terms and conditions apply.”