Sheikh Sultan honours winners of 16th Sharjah Biennial
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the award ceremony for the winners of the 16th Sharjah Biennial in the Heart of Sharjah.
Upon his arrival, Sheikh Dr. Sultan was welcomed by Sheikha Hoor Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Arts Foundation; Sheikha Hind Bint Majid Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Businesswomen Council; Sheikha Nawar Bint Ahmed Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Arts Foundation; along with several general directors, heads of government departments, officials, and artists.
The ceremony began with a visual presentation that highlighted the key milestones in the preparation for this year's biennial, along with clips from previous editions and the activities and events that the biennial offers as a major global artistic event.
Sheikha Hoor Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Arts Foundation, delivered a speech addressing the comprehensive vision of the Sharjah Biennial as a distinguished global creative art event. She emphasised its connection to Sharjah's cultural project, which receives the highest levels of care and attention.
She stated, 'The 16th Sharjah Biennial has arrived in the city from which it originated, carrying its gifts in abundant baskets and blessed by the visions of its sponsor and founder. It unfolds its offerings across the emirate, enriched by the creativity of artists from all corners of the world, after traversing places and times in search of the higher value of humanity wherever it exists. The biennial's curators seek the commonality in what appears different, the authenticity in what seems hybrid, and the essence in what appears transient.'
The Chairperson of the Sharjah Arts Foundation pointed to the theme of this biennial and the philosophy and role of art in its broadest sense in human life, noting the unlimited support from the Ruler of Sharjah for all the projects proposed by the emirate.
She said, 'This edition carries the title 'Our Journeys.' What projects does this journey encompass that can restore our sense of self, exhausted by what is happening in the world around us? Is there any path other than that of art that can represent salvation for us? Perhaps this is what we are expected to discover in the coming days and weeks. Sharjah—every part of Sharjah—celebrates this occasion, which we hope will be worthy of this good land and worthy of the parents of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. I find no words to encompass his great generosity; all expressions are submerged in the sea of his wisdom, and all the aspirations we seek stand at his first step. I dedicate this biennial to my father and role model, and to you, the children and residents of Sharjah.'
At the conclusion of her speech, Sheikha Hoor Bint Sultan Al Qasimi expressed her gratitude and appreciation to the curators of the exhibition, the participating artists, as well as all the organisers and supporters.
Sheikha Nawar Bint Ahmed Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Arts Foundation, delivered a speech in which she expressed her gratitude and appreciation to the Ruler of Sharjah for his prominent role in making Sharjah a creative and generous cultural city.
She stated, 'As we witness the launch of the 16th Sharjah Biennial, we are once again reminded of that feeling we have come to expect at every significant occasion hosted by this blessed land—the feeling that we live in an emirate that never stops giving.
We strive, in every way we can, to offer something worthy of it and worthy of its sponsor, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, who has granted us a trust that we hope to be worthy of. He has guided us with his wisdom along a path that takes us to the farthest corners of the world.
And perhaps, as we seek to feel that gift, we can offer him something in return from what he has bestowed upon us, placing in his hands a fruit from the gardens of his precious generosity.'
The Director of the Sharjah Arts Foundation highlighted the role of the Sharjah Biennial in opening windows for creativity and the arts for all artists. She pointed out the significant contributions of the biennial's curators and their long journey in researching and exploring the artistic experiences that participated in this year's edition. At the conclusion of her speech, she expressed her gratitude and appreciation to the partners, supporters, and participating artists.
The Ruler of Sharjah honoured the winners of this year's Sharjah Biennial: Aziz Hazara, Blavi Paul, and Prachaya Vinthong.
Sheikha Hoor Bint Sultan Al Qasimi also recognised the sponsors and partners of this edition, taking commemorative photos with them on this occasion.
The curators of this year's biennial – Alya Swastika, Amal Khalaf, Megan Tamati, Natasha Ginwala, and Zainab Oz -- delivered speeches highlighting the importance of the artistic projects featured in this edition, which brings together diverse and exceptional creativity and represents a cultural platform for communication, cultural exchange, and the sharing of ideas.
The judging panel, consisting of Angie Joo, Gerardo Mosquera, and Paula Nascimento, expressed their gratitude and appreciation to the Sharjah Arts Foundation for the opportunity to participate in the Sharjah Biennial. They highlighted the foundation's great capabilities, expertise in organisation, and careful selection of works, which stood out as comprehensive and creative artistic projects.
The 16th edition of the Sharjah Biennial, running from February 6 to June 15, features 200 artists from around the world presenting over 650 artworks, including 80 new commissions, across 17 locations in the Emirate of Sharjah under the theme "Our Journeys."
This year's biennial includes a range of artistic presentations spread throughout the city of Sharjah, including Al Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Kalba, Al Madam, and many areas belonging to the emirate of Sharjah, reflecting the cultural and artistic diversity that characterises this major artistic event.
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Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah builds cultural bridges between Africa and the Arab world
Amid a time when Arabic poetry faces marginalisation in parts of Africa, Sharjah's forward-thinking initiatives have restored Arabic literature to its rightful place—as a vessel of identity, a tool for dialogue, and a platform for human expression. Coordinators praised the vision behind the Arabic Poetry Forums in Africa—an initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah—which has marked the beginning of a new cultural era across the continent. These forums have given hundreds of poets opportunities for visibility, documentation, and publication through structured programmes led by Sharjah's Department of Culture in collaboration with local cultural bodies. Coordinators in nine African nations—Mali, Chad, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, South Sudan, Benin, and Côte d'Ivoire—shared updates on preparations for the fourth edition of the poetry forums, set to begin this month. Plans are underway for expanded poet participation and accompanying cultural events. Reviving the Arabic language through poetry Dr Abdelkader Idriss Mega, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Mali, described Sharjah's initiative as a pioneering model that reflects the wide-reaching cultural vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He noted that the initiative is more than just a poetry festival—it is a genuine platform for reviving the Arabic language in historically Arabic-speaking communities. Dr Mega highlighted the forums' role in elevating poetry as a cultural force in Mali, a country where African depth intersects with Arab-Islamic heritage. 'Sharjah's support represents a living example of Afro-Arab cultural integration, and a genuine embodiment of His Highness's vision for building literary bridges across the region,' he said. 'It has granted African poets a worthy platform, embraced their talents, and nurtured creativity in a respectful, professional atmosphere.' He emphasised the clear impact: a vibrant poetry movement, an interactive cultural space blending authenticity and openness, and a rejuvenated local cultural scene that had long suffered from stagnation. Looking ahead to Mali's fourth poetry forum Dr Mega stated that Mali's Arabic Poetry Forum continues to grow in terms of organisation, content, and participation. The number of poets has doubled this year, drawing a rich mix of emerging and established voices from across the country. The fourth edition will welcome between 15 and 20 poets from Bamako and other regions. What sets this edition apart is the broader participation and more diverse poetic styles, alongside growing public interest. The forum has drawn the attention of prominent figures, intellectuals, academics, university students, and media professionals, giving it greater cultural and institutional weight. The accompanying programme includes poetry readings, literary discussions, and workshops on Arabic poetic techniques, in addition to interactive sessions between poets and the public—fostering cultural exchange and deepening aesthetic appreciation for poetry. Cultural renewal through Sharjah's literary vision Dr Ahmed Abou El Fath Othman, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Chad, described Sharjah's support for Arabic poetry in Africa as a shining example of Arab cultural integration. He praised the leadership of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for reinforcing the Arabic language and culture across both Arabic-speaking regions and beyond. He noted that the poetry forums, organised by the Department of Culture in Sharjah, have contributed to shaping a renewed cultural landscape by creating spaces for creative exchange and restoring poetry's role as a tool of expression, awareness, and identity-building. The upcoming fourth edition of the poetry forum in Chad, according to Dr Abou El Fath, marks a significant milestone. While 32 poets participated last year, this year's forum is expected to feature over 40 poets, selected from more than 200 submissions. The selection criteria focus on high-calibre classical Arabic poetry. This year's edition is noteworthy for bringing together poets from various regions of Chad on a single platform to share their work with an engaged and appreciative audience. The forum has also opened doors for emerging voices, with many young and aspiring poets seizing this opportunity to prove their talent. Dr Abou El Fath highlighted that some of these poets, after participating in the Chad forum, went on to take part in international poetry gatherings—raising their country's profile on broader cultural stages. He affirmed that none of this would have been possible without Sharjah's generous and strategic support for Arabic culture in Africa. 'We extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Sharjah, a beacon of knowledge and creativity, for continually championing Arab literary excellence and broadening its horizons,' he said. A deep encouragement for African Arabic poetry Dr Kaba Imran, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Guinea, expressed how African Arabic poetry is now "breathing freely" again, receiving recognition and honour from an Arab nation—specifically from His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. 'This is a profound source of encouragement for a form of poetry that had long been absent from the African cultural scene,' he said. He noted that the fourth edition of the forum will welcome many new poets. Previously, participation was limited to poets from the capital region, but now, the event draws poets from across all regions of Guinea and even from outside the country. Thanks to the forum, many poets have gained new confidence in their talent and literary voice—especially first-time participants. Dr Imran confirmed that these gatherings have inspired poets with ambitious new horizons and a growing cultural awareness with meaningful impact. Celebrating poetic beauty in Niger Dr Amadou Ali Ibrahim, cultural coordinator in Niger, hailed Sharjah as a cultural capital that continues to celebrate the enduring power of poetry, thanks to the unwavering support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He said the Arabic poetry forums in Africa have been a resounding literary success from the start, leaving a clear cultural imprint across the continent and growing stronger with each edition. Dr Ibrahim expressed hope that this year's forum in Niger will spotlight new poetic talents and attract a larger audience, particularly among Arabic language students in the country. As in previous years, the event will feature two poetry sessions enriched by critical commentary—offering aesthetic insights into the poems—and a literary lecture exploring the Arabic language and its social dimensions within Niger. He is optimistic that this edition will see a stronger poetic presence, not only in the number of poets attending from across the country but also in the strength and beauty of the Arabic poems being shared. 'The forum has become a stage for Niger's promising poetic voices to shine and grow,' he said. Enrichment and empowerment in Nigeria Dr Omar Adam, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Nigeria, highlighted the profound impact of Sharjah's support—under the guidance of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah—on enriching the cultural scene across Africa. Through the forums, a deeper appreciation for the Arabic language and its literary traditions has taken root in multiple African nations. He noted that this support has enabled poets to refine their craft, moving beyond traditional forms to embrace modern poetic techniques aligned with global literary currents. The upcoming fourth edition of the poetry forum in Nigeria marks a significant cultural moment, building on the success of previous editions and further promoting Arabic poetry and cross-cultural dialogue. Thanks to financial and institutional backing from Sharjah's Department of Culture, several Nigerian poets have published Arabic poetry collections—many for the first time—showcasing a flourishing literary presence in the country. 'This year, we've witnessed an unprecedented number of applications, surpassing those of all previous editions combined,' said Dr Adam. 'It's a clear sign of how deeply these forums have energised the creative spirit and helped develop local poetic talent.' He added that the forum, supported by Sharjah, has spotlighted poetic voices from all regions of Nigeria. 'What began as a symbolic initiative has now become a dynamic platform for Nigerian poets, including those who are not native Arabic speakers, to share their work and connect with the wider Arab literary world. This effort not only preserves heritage but also drives forward a new wave of poetic creativity rooted in rich literary traditions.' Beyond boundaries: Côte d'Ivoire celebrates Arabic verse Dr Bamba Issiaka, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Côte d'Ivoire, said Sharjah's cultural initiative transcends borders and languages, empowering genuine creativity through sustained support, openness to new voices, and a dynamic blend of literary creation and critique. He affirmed that the forums serve as a model for cultural collaboration, showing that poetry still holds the power to build bridges and reshape collective awareness. 'The Arabic Poetry Forum has become a major annual cultural event in Côte d'Ivoire, eagerly anticipated by the public,' he said, citing strong participation from university students and the emergence of talented young poets. According to Dr Issiaka, Sharjah's support does more than offer financial assistance—it maps out a long-term vision for Arabic poetry in Africa. The fourth edition of the forum, he noted, will mark a qualitative leap in the country's cultural scene, with new voices and cities taking part, reflecting the forum's continued growth and expanding reach. A cultural continuum in South Sudan Dr Mohammed Maj Riak, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in South Sudan, described Sharjah's backing of Arabic poetry in Africa as part of a broader cultural vision that embraces creativity in all its forms. This support, he said, helps reaffirm the value of poetry as a means of expressing identity and collective memory. He noted that the forums have added significant value to South Sudan's cultural landscape. 'For this year's edition, we've widened participation to include poets from different generations and schools of thought, with a discerning and appreciative audience engaging closely with the sessions,' said Dr Riak. The accompanying events will include literary workshops, critical forums, and public discussions to enhance interaction between poets and audiences. He stressed that the initiative has played a pivotal role in bringing attention to lesser-known voices and given them opportunities to connect with leading figures from the Arab literary world—broadening their cultural horizons and artistic growth. Tangible momentum in Senegal Dr Mohamed El Hadi Sall, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Senegal, described Sharjah's patronage of Arabic poetry in Africa as a pioneering initiative rooted in a genuine belief in the power of words and their role in bridging cultures. He noted that the support went beyond financial assistance—it was a powerful moral boost that helped elevate local cultural identity and revive interest in Arabic poetry. 'The forums supported by Sharjah created real cultural momentum,' Dr Sall said. 'They opened new spaces for expression and dialogue, allowing a broader audience to engage with poets and their work.' He added that the fourth edition brings greater energy and diversity, with poets from various schools and experiences, along with a rich cultural programme including poetry readings, critical discussions, and parallel artistic performances. 'This year's audience is more engaged and informed than ever, which reflects a growing connection between the public and poetic expression. The event has also drawn strong attention from the cultural community, media, and social networks—clear proof that the forum has become a major annual cultural highlight.' Sustained support in Benin Dr Ibrahim Ogboun, coordinator of the Arabic Poetry Forum in Benin, said that no discussion of Arabic poetry in Africa today would be complete without acknowledging the vital role of Sharjah. Through its thoughtful cultural initiatives, the emirate has consistently supported the written word and strengthened its presence in the public sphere. He explained that Sharjah's support has evolved into a comprehensive cultural project, offering renewed energy to literary platforms across the continent. 'The poetry forums held under Sharjah's patronage are not seasonal events,' Dr Ogboun stressed. 'They have become a genuine driver of the poetic scene, offering space for experimentation, dialogue, and public engagement.' Speaking about the fourth edition, he added: 'With strong attendance and a wide variety of participants, the forum in Benin is moving confidently toward establishing itself as a leading cultural event in the country. This year's edition will stand out in both format and content, with a larger number of poets and a dynamic series of events including poetry evenings, critical sessions, and open dialogues between creators and a poetry-hungry audience.' Sharjah's initiative, he said, has opened new doors for local poets and introduced fresh voices to the broader Arab poetic tradition. 'The forum has become a true platform for discovering talent and exchanging experiences. Many poets have spoken about how this opportunity transformed their work—whether through new publishing avenues or invitations to take part in Arab literary festivals.'
Gulf Today
18-05-2025
- Gulf Today
SMA announces free entry to Sharjah museums on May 18
Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) announced free entry to all its museums on Sunday, May 18, in celebration of International Museum Day. The Authority will mark the occasion with a series of interactive experiences running from May 15 to 22, highlighting the evolving role of museums in serving communities and responding to cultural and societal transformations. This year's International Museum Day carries the theme 'The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Societies,' underscoring the importance of equipping museums to meet the expectations of future generations and navigate ongoing digital and societal shifts. It also highlights the importance of safeguarding intangible heritage, empowering youth within communities, and leveraging emerging technologies to enhance the role of museums in a changing world. A general view of the Sharjah Museum. The theme also aligns with the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who views museums as vital centres for knowledge, identity, and cultural awareness across all segments of society. Emphasising the significance of this global occasion, Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director General of Sharjah Museums Authority, said: 'This occasion reaffirms our commitment to delivering high-quality museum experiences that promote lifelong learning and strengthen the connection between museums and their communities.' She added that the Authority continues to position its museums as dynamic spaces for dialogue, discovery, and education, while reimagining the visitor experience to be more inclusive and aligned with evolving cultural and digital trends. 'Sharjah Museums remain open and accessible to all,' she concluded. This year's celebration unfolds through four main activations that promise engaging and memorable experiences for all age groups. The first takes place across Sharjah's museums from May 15 to 22, inviting visitors to explore themed, self-guided museum workshops. These creative and interactive walk-in activities-such as designing future museums, building traditional boats, and digitally illustrating marine life-combine fun and learning to spark curiosity and imagination. The second is an immersive sensory experience titled 'Experience Museums with All Your Senses' at City Centre Al Zahia from May 15 to 18. This dynamic platform activates sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, through interactive exhibits drawn from Sharjah's rich museum collections, offering visitors a vivid encounter with heritage through innovative engagement. The third activation features a guided tour titled 'A Walk Through Living Heritage,' led by Emirati storyteller and heritage expert Mouza Binhdhaiba, also known as Umm Azan at the Sharjah Heritage Museum on May 16 from 5:00 to 6:00 pm. Her engaging narrative brings to life the customs and traditions of Emirati society, offering participants a personal connection to the past. Finally, the fourth activation is an invitation-only Focus Group Session titled 'Innovation in Action: Technology's Role in Shaping Museum Experiences,' hosted at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization on May 17. Gathering a select group of professionals from various disciplines, this session encourages the exchange of ideas on integrating technology to elevate museum experiences and support digital transformation efforts. These initiatives reflect Sharjah Museums Authority's ongoing investment in enhancing visitor engagement and delivering inclusive, high-quality programmes that showcase the emirate's cultural and intellectual richness. They reaffirm Sharjah's status as a regional and international hub for cultural dialogue and discovery. As part of its celebration of International Museum Day, Sharjah Museums Authority will illuminate a selection of its landmark buildings for three consecutive nights, from May 18 to 20, 2025. This symbolic gesture includes SMA's Headquarters, Sharjah Archaeology Museum, Sharjah Fort, Sharjah Art Museum, and the Resistance Monument, transforming each site into a radiant beacon of cultural pride. Through this visual expression, the Authority reaffirms its commitment to community engagement and cultural visibility. WAM
Sharjah 24
17-05-2025
- Sharjah 24
Jawaher Al Qasimi witnesses launch of ‘Precious Heart'
Inspired by the Emirati craft of Talli, the collection features 20 pieces of jewellery made from high-purity imperial jadeite, with an estimated total value of £9.7 million. Imperial jadeite, the central element of the collection, is a rare and highly valuable type of jade known for its rich emerald-green hue. The collection also includes diamonds, amethysts, and natural pearls, and consists of rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, anklets, and beaded jadeite necklaces, all set in 18-karat gold and adorned with precious stones. During her opening speech, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher highlighted that Sharjah, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, has always aimed to build organizations that extend beyond administrative bodies providing living projects rooted in values and reflecting the emirate's culture of giving, cooperation, as well as the safeguarding human dignity. Humanitarian giving is the common ground / an alliance for good and creativity Her Highness said: 'Since the very first event organised by our first organization, we made it a condition that every beauty-focused initiative must be paired with a charitable cause that serves a community in need — and this belief has never changed. Through this, we established a culture that distinguishes our organizations and created a humanitarian dimension to our gatherings and events, one that engages with global issues and challenges, and contributes to shaping a more just and compassionate future.' 'This collaboration between Irthi, The Big Heart Foundation, and Asprey demonstrates the value of unified efforts and shared resources in continuing to support noble humanitarian causes. When one party carries the legacy of heritage, another champions humanitarian responsibility, and a third the excellence of design, their partnership becomes a creative humanitarian initiative which is now embodied in the 'Precious Heart' collection. This reflects the role of art as a means of empowerment and a goodwill tool,' Her Highness concluded. Her Highness also attended the opening of a silent charity auction for the collection, held at The Chedi Al Bait Hotel in Sharjah. Running until May 19, it offers a unique opportunity to acquire limited-edition pieces that merge the refined craftsmanship of an iconic global brand with the cultural identity of the UAE and a noble humanitarian mission. For participation and further information in the exclusive auction, please contact the Irthi team at +971 54 345 0036. Royal legacy and an exclusive collection The agreement underpinning the collaboration between Irthi, TBHF, and Asprey was signed in London in 2024, establishing a unique global model for partnerships between craft organizations, humanitarian organizations, and luxury brands; all in aid of supporting noble causes. Asprey donated 1,000 grams of high-purity imperial jadeite, initially expected to produce 12 pieces valued at £4 million. However, due to the exceptional clarity of the jadeite; containing only 7% impurities compared to the typical 40%; the material yielded 20 pieces, raising the collection's total estimated value. A partnership that weaves a noble impact John Rigas, CEO of Asprey, commented: 'Our shared values of sustainability, craftsmanship, and humanitarian service are fully aligned. We are proud to collaborate with Irthi and The Big Heart Foundation on this unique collection, which honors Emirati heritage while making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.' Partnerships rooted in heritage and reflecting human values Her Excellency Reem BinKaram, Director General of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, stressed that Sheikha Jawaher's leadership ensured the council's initiatives had global reach and meaningful humanitarian impact. 'Heritage reflects a nation's shared values and cultural foundations. Her Highness's support has enabled Irthi to build strategic partnerships with some of the world's most respected brands, driven by our shared belief that art is a noble message and a universal language that can empower communities and cultivate compassion. Inspired by the traditional Emirati Talli craft, the 'Precious Heart' collection showcases our efforts to preserve and reinterpret our cultural heritage through contemporary design,' BinKaram noted. Empowering communities through creativity and humanitarian work Her Excellency Alya Obaid Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF, emphasised that the most important lesson from Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher's approach is that the sustainability of humanitarian work is not measured solely by the longevity of programmes but by the depth of their impact on people's lives and the inspiration they offer to institutions across sectors. 'The partnership between TBHF, Asprey, and Irthi is an example of sustainable collaboration and a creative model for mobilising resources and investing in art and craftsmanship to serve humanity. This is the true purpose of art and the role of heritage to serve as tools for change and aspirations toward a world where human dignity and rights are protected.' The 'Precious Heart' collection represents the vision of Sharjah and the UAE, blending authenticity and modernity, beauty and creativity, and a commitment to meaningful humanitarian change. It also invites institutions and companies worldwide to contribute to efforts that create a lasting impact for individuals and communities alike.
