Sexuality and religion 'not off-limits' at Abu Dhabi Louvre

The curator of the Abu Dhabi branch of the Louvre says no artistic subjects are off limits as the museum builds its collection for the planned 2015 opening.

Laurence Des Cars sought to challenge concerns that the United Arab Emirates would resist works with themes such as sexuality and religion.

She told reporters today that all aspects of art will be shown, but that it won't try to ''shock just to be shocking."

The comments came during a tour showing 130 works acquired for the museum, ranging from ancient Persian artifacts to modern paintings.

The Louvre is part of wider plans by Abu Dhabi for a cultural district that will also include a branch of New York's Guggenheim museum. The sites have faced repeated construction delays.

AP