Ryan Reynolds praises Abu Dhabi's arts scene and the 'eccentricity' that makes cities thrive

Ryan Reynolds has lauded Abu Dhabi's arts and culture scene, asserting that culture plays a vital role in giving cities their distinct identity. The Canadian actor, producer, and entrepreneur spoke at LiveX in Abu Dhabi, highlighting how the emirate has successfully developed its artistic sector. Reynolds noted that attracting and retaining younger generations can transform modern cities, creating a "boom town" with a sense of eccentricity.

He discussed the event, LiveX, which gathers government officials, developers, investors, and international experts to explore ways to improve city livability and address challenges such as rapid growth and changing demographics.

Abu Dhabi's focus on culture has been evident in recent years, with Saadiyat Island now boasting the Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and soon the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. The Guggenheim will focus on art from the 1960s to the present, featuring works by renowned artists such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, Andy Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, alongside artists from the Arab world, Africa, and Asia who have received less international attention.

Reynolds emphasized that successful cities often possess a strong sense of identity, stating, "I think of communities that function and thrive, and it's usually because they have a very healthy sense of self." He also reflected on his own creative identity as a storyteller rather than a conventional actor, expressing his love for storytelling and his unique approach to filmmaking.

Reynolds mentioned that he can be acting in various ways simultaneously while working on the Deadpool films, making him more than just a pure actor. He likened his approach to making the films to a symphony, noting that it is both a gift and a challenging experience.

The actor's creative process is also influenced by his childhood, where he was constantly anticipating what might happen next, inventing storylines in his mind, and navigating potential threats. This mindset extends to his collaborations with co-writers, where he sometimes presents a "bad version" of an idea to encourage dissent and foster creativity.

Reynolds believes admitting uncertainty can be as important as having the answer, as it allows others to contribute their perspectives and ultimately leads to a more innovative outcome.