Latest news with #AlBurdaAward
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
UAE a global leader in preserving historic art of Arabic calligraphy
14 Aug 2025 00:25 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)Art as beautiful as Arabic calligraphy deserves the global spotlight, and the UAE has been at the forefront of keeping this ancient art form alive amid the rapid developments of the modern world. On World Calligraphy Day, marked every second Wednesday of August, Aletihad highlights the significance of this artistic expression as a cultural treasure for the UAE and the Arab world. Arabic calligraphy was inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in December 2021, and the UAE is among the 16 countries that have made it happen. UNESCO described the art form as 'the artistic practice of handwriting Arabic script in a fluid manner to convey harmony, grace and beauty.''The fluidity of Arabic script offers infinite possibilities, even within a single word, as letters can be stretched and transformed in numerous ways to create different motifs,' it said. Arabic calligraphy is more than just a writing technique: its flowing lines, curves, and complex forms represent centuries of artistic tradition, as well as the richness and elegance of the was born out of Arab speakers' need to develop the language and create letters and shapes that capture 'the spirit and culture of Arab and Islamic societies,' Abu Dhabi Culture said in a primer on its website. 'Over time, as the importance of the Arabic language grew, specialised art forms and calligraphy schools were established with innovative curricula,' it added. At a time when most writing needs are met by tapping away on screens and keyboards, the UAE ensures there remains a permanent space for the art of putting ink on paper and turning Arabic script into a masterpiece. The UAE has established itself as a leader in preserving and advancing Arabic calligraphy through numerous initiatives – including exhibitions and festivals – within the country and beyond.'This has encouraged new developments and innovations in calligraphy and other arts,' Abu Dhabi Culture said. The Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi has been committed to supporting this art form since its early days. Through the years, it has organised events and activities that encourage development in the field. It has also set up a dedicated department for teaching the art. The Ministry of Culture, through awards like the prestigious Al Burda Award, has played a pivotal role in encouraging global participation and recognition of the organisations regularly hold workshops, competitions, and exhibitions, combining traditional techniques with modern resources. In 2023, more than 200 artists from around the world participated in the inaugural Dubai Calligraphy Biennale, which was organised by Dubai beauty and development of Arabic script in visual art were emphasised by exhibitions such as the 'History of Arabic Calligraphy in the UAE' at Al Shindagha Museum and the 'Light Lines' photography entities in the country also ensure the art form remains relevant through impactful discussions and open dialogues. The 2024 panel discussion 'Arabic Calligraphy: Between Creativity and Renewal' at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library was one such effort that brought together well-known calligraphers and artists. Arabic calligraphy has evolved through time, from the geometric Kufic script to the elegant, flowing Naskh, and contemporary freestyle typefaces. While maintaining the discipline and internal logic of the art form, artists today experiment with both traditional and digital forms, developing new designs for branding, book design, posters, and commercial use. By actively supporting and celebrating this heritage, the UAE has not only safeguarded Arabic calligraphy but also elevated it on the global stage, establishing itself as a vibrant centre for creatives, artists, and calligraphers from around the world.
Mid East Info
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Al Burda Exhibition Opens at the Aga Khan Museum in Canada - Middle East Business News and Information
Toronto, Canada – June 2025: H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, in the presence of H.E. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Foreign Minister's Envoy to Canada and Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, inaugurated the ' As the Sun Appears from Beyond' exhibition at the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto. The exhibition commemorates the 20th anniversary of Al Burda Award and highlights the cultural partnership between the UAE Ministry of Culture and the Museum. Open to the public until 15 February 2026, the exhibition features over 60 contemporary works by Al Burda Award recipients, along with two special works from Al Badr Award, presented in visual dialogue with rare historical and archaeological artifacts from the Aga Khan Museum's collection. It explores the evolution of Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, abstract painting, and the art of the word, highlighting an artistic journey that blends deep-rooted tradition with contemporary expression. Curated by Fatima Al Mahmoud, Sarah bin Safwan, and Sheikha Al Zaabi – three graduates of Al Burda Grant program – the exhibition embodies an artistic vision that reflects the spirit of the award and its future aspirations. It also serves as a testament to cultural exchange and creative empowerment across borders. Alongside the exhibition, a rich cultural program is taking place, offering a variety of talks, lectures, and hands-on workshops focused on Arabic calligraphy, Islamic ornamentation, and poetry. The program also features dynamic artistic performances and multidisciplinary activities that invite visitors to engage with Islamic art in an immersive and participatory way—extending the experience beyond the gallery space and highlighting the depth and vitality of contemporary expression. In conjunction with the exhibition, a commemorative book was produced to celebrate the 20-year legacy of Al Burda Award. Featuring contributions from renowned experts in Islamic art, the volume explores the Award's cultural significance and its role in advancing contemporary interpretations of Islamic aesthetics. Positioned as both a scholarly and creative resource, the publication enhances the exhibition's impact and reinforces the UAE's mission to preserve, promote, and recontextualize Islamic artistic traditions for global audiences. In his opening remarks, H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi emphasised the significance of this occasion as a key milestone in journey of Al Burda Award. H.E. stated: 'This exhibition represents a strategic effort to deepen cultural collaboration between the UAE and Canada and reflects our commitment to presenting Islamic arts through a contemporary lens that resonates with shared human values and fosters intercultural dialogue. Now in its 20th year, Al Burda Award continues to serve as a global Emirati platform for redefining the presence of Islamic art on the world stage.' His Excellency added: 'We are proud to partner with the Aga Khan Museum for this landmark exhibition. It reflects our dedication to cultural openness and our belief in the power of art to build bridges between civilisations. We look forward to cultivating more partnerships with international institutions that empower creatives and contribute to a more inclusive global cultural landscape.' Established in 2004, Al Burda Award has recognised more than 390 talented individuals specialising in Islamic arts, including poets, calligraphers, and visual artists from around the world. It remains a leading UAE platform that celebrates the richness of Islamic art and the beauty of Arabic language. The award also highlights the UAE's role in promoting creativity and intercultural dialogue globally, preserving the artistic heritage of Islamic civilisation, and presenting outstanding works to a global audience.
Hi Dubai
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
Ministry of Culture Launches 19th Al Burda Award Celebrating Social Unity Through Islamic Art
The UAE Ministry of Culture has launched the 19th edition of the Al Burda Award, spotlighting the theme of 'Social Cohesion and Unity' in alignment with the country's 'Year of the Community' initiative. The award continues its mission to highlight the beauty of Islamic art while promoting values of tolerance, coexistence, and cultural dialogue. Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the award reflects the UAE's ongoing efforts to preserve Islamic heritage and promote it globally. Sheikh Abdullah underscored the country's role in nurturing Islamic arts and introducing their universal values to international audiences. Minister of Culture Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi said the award embodies the UAE's vision of using art as a bridge between cultures. He invited creatives from across the Islamic world to submit works that capture the spirit and beauty of Islamic artistic traditions. This year's edition draws inspiration from verse 13 of Surah Al-Hujurat and a verse from the renowned Burda poem, reinforcing the call for unity among diverse communities. The award features three main categories: Arabic Calligraphy, Arabic Poetry, and Ornamentation, each offering subcategories with significant prize pools. A total of over AED 1.5 million has been allocated to support artists across these fields. Since its inception in 2004, Al Burda Award has honoured more than 390 artists, poets, and calligraphers. It stands today as a leading platform championing the richness of Islamic art and the enduring legacy of the Arabic language. Entries are open on the website until 30 September 2025, with art submissions accepted until 13 October 2025. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Yahoo
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award Illuminates the Aga Khan Museum This Summer
The groundbreaking exhibition, co-curated by the inaugural Al Burda Fellows, celebrates contemporary Islamic art and a shared commitment to intercultural dialogue and understanding TORONTO, June 12, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Following a successful opening at the 18th Al Burda Award ceremony, hosted at the Louvre Abu Dhabi in December 2024, As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award makes its North American debut at the Aga Khan Museum on June 14, 2025. Marking a historic first, the exhibition is the result of a unique Memorandum of Understanding between the Aga Khan Museum and the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture. Featuring more than 60 spectacular artworks from the Al Burda Award collection, the exhibition places these contemporary pieces in dialogue with historical masterpieces from the Aga Khan Museum Collections. It presents an artistic and contemplative conversation between past and present, offering a captivating visual experience that bridges the physical and the spiritual. Showcasing classical and contemporary expressions of Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, abstract painting, and the art of the word, the exhibition celebrates some of the most outstanding artists in Islamic art today. It invites visitors on a contemplative journey through sublime beauty, deep spirituality, and breathtaking technical skill. From visual art to an interactive poetry listening station, the exhibition illuminates pathways to intercultural understanding, renewal, and spiritual connection, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the creative spirit of the Muslim world today. As the Sun Appears from Beyond was co-curated by Fatma Mahmoud, Sara bin Safwan, and Shaikha Al Zaabi, in collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum. The young Emirati curators represent the first cohort of Al Burda Fellows, selected by the UAE Ministry of Culture to curate the Al Burda Award's remarkable 20-year collection. Their curatorial journey began in July 2024, when they travelled to Toronto for a professional residency at the Aga Khan Museum. There, they immersed themselves in the Museum's unique mandate, Collections, and approach to culturally appropriate museology before developing the exhibition around the theme of light — Al-Noor — in celebration of 20 years of the Al Burda Award and the Museum's 10th anniversary. "The collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Culture and its three exceptional Al Burda Fellows has been an honour and a joy. Working on such a prestigious project together, across and beyond cultural differences, has been a truly enriching and inspiring experience for the Museum," says Dr. Ulrike Al-Khamis, Director and CEO of the Aga Khan Museum. "Together, we have opened up a new world of intercultural artistic appreciation, dialogue, and understanding. To that end, our storytelling approach is not only factual but also allows for empathetic, inclusive engagement. Striving for the art to be presented in a way that transcends cultural differences, the exhibition invites aesthetic appreciation, engenders conversation, and serves as a creative resource for intercultural learning." The Memorandum of Understanding between the Aga Khan Museum and the UAE Ministry of Culture, signed in December 2023, aims to enrich educational and artistic initiatives for young professionals, intellectuals, art practitioners, and students. Through collaboration, it opens pathways to learning and creative development with training and mentorship. This groundbreaking partnership, driven by a shared commitment to pluralism and cross-cultural dialogue, envisions diverse opportunities at museums and cultural institutions in the United Arab Emirates and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto for emerging curators, artists, and museum professionals. "Our collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum, highlighted through the As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award exhibition, exemplifies the powerful impact of cross-cultural partnerships in fostering artistic innovation and dialogue. This exhibition marks a significant milestone for Al Burda's rich history and the young Emirati curators who have shaped it during their residency in Toronto," says H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture. "Their creative vision and dedication, nurtured by this unique partnership, underscore our shared commitment to supporting emerging voices and advancing cultural diplomacy. By bridging the artistic heritage of the UAE and Canada, we are laying the foundation for a more connected and inclusive global artistic landscape." Alongside the exhibition, visitors can deepen their experience through a series of talks, lectures, hands-on workshops, dynamic performances, and interdisciplinary programs inspired by poetry, calligraphy, and ornamentation. From a mesmerizing dance, exploring the rhythm and geometry of ornamental design, to deeper meditative reflections on calligraphy, these programs offer an immersive journey beyond the galleries. About the Aga Khan Museum The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, Canada, has been established and developed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), which is an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Through permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational activities and performing arts, the Museum's mission is to spark wonder, curiosity, and understanding of Muslim cultures and their connection with other cultures through the arts. Designed by architect Fumihiko Maki, the Museum shares a 6.8-hectare site with Toronto's Ismaili Centre, which was designed by architect Charles Correa. The surrounding landscaped park was designed by landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic. About the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture The Ministry of Culture works to enrich the cultural ecosystem of the UAE by supporting the country's cultural, art and heritage institutions. It provides a platform for artists and innovators, promotes cross-cultural dialogue, and delivers dynamic productions and experiences that represent the UAE's rich and eclectic culture on a national as well as international level. View source version on Contacts FOR PRESS INQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT: Garry Ho Porter Novelli 347.379.3089 Kelly Frances Director, Marketing and Communications Aga Khan Museum press@ 416.858.8735 Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
National Post
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- National Post
As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award Illuminates the Aga Khan Museum This Summer
Article content The groundbreaking exhibition, co-curated by the inaugural Al Burda Fellows, celebrates contemporary Islamic art and a shared commitment to intercultural dialogue and understanding Article content TORONTO — Following a successful opening at the 18th Al Burda Award ceremony, hosted at the Louvre Abu Dhabi in December 2024, As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award makes its North American debut at the Aga Khan Museum on June 14, 2025. Marking a historic first, the exhibition is the result of a unique Memorandum of Understanding between the Aga Khan Museum and the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture. Featuring more than 60 spectacular artworks from the Al Burda Award collection, the exhibition places these contemporary pieces in dialogue with historical masterpieces from the Aga Khan Museum Collections. It presents an artistic and contemplative conversation between past and present, offering a captivating visual experience that bridges the physical and the spiritual. Article content Showcasing classical and contemporary expressions of Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, abstract painting, and the art of the word, the exhibition celebrates some of the most outstanding artists in Islamic art today. It invites visitors on a contemplative journey through sublime beauty, deep spirituality, and breathtaking technical skill. From visual art to an interactive poetry listening station, the exhibition illuminates pathways to intercultural understanding, renewal, and spiritual connection, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the creative spirit of the Muslim world today. Article content As the Sun Appears from Beyond Article content was co-curated by Fatma Mahmoud, Sara bin Safwan, and Shaikha Al Zaabi, in collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum. The young Emirati curators represent the first cohort of Al Burda Fellows, selected by the UAE Ministry of Culture to curate the Al Burda Award's remarkable 20-year collection. Their curatorial journey began in July 2024, when they travelled to Toronto for a professional residency at the Aga Khan Museum. There, they immersed themselves in the Museum's unique mandate, Collections, and approach to culturally appropriate museology before developing the exhibition around the theme of light — Article content Al-Noor — in celebration of 20 years of the Al Burda Award and the Museum's 10th anniversary. Article content 'The collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Culture and its three exceptional Al Burda Fellows has been an honour and a joy. Working on such a prestigious project together, across and beyond cultural differences, has been a truly enriching and inspiring experience for the Museum,' says Dr. Ulrike Al-Khamis, Director and CEO of the Aga Khan Museum. 'Together, we have opened up a new world of intercultural artistic appreciation, dialogue, and understanding. To that end, our storytelling approach is not only factual but also allows for empathetic, inclusive engagement. Striving for the art to be presented in a way that transcends cultural differences, the exhibition invites aesthetic appreciation, engenders conversation, and serves as a creative resource for intercultural learning.' Article content The Memorandum of Understanding between the Aga Khan Museum and the UAE Ministry of Culture, signed in December 2023, aims to enrich educational and artistic initiatives for young professionals, intellectuals, art practitioners, and students. Through collaboration, it opens pathways to learning and creative development with training and mentorship. This groundbreaking partnership, driven by a shared commitment to pluralism and cross-cultural dialogue, envisions diverse opportunities at museums and cultural institutions in the United Arab Emirates and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto for emerging curators, artists, and museum professionals. Article content 'Our collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum, highlighted through the As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award exhibition, exemplifies the powerful impact of cross-cultural partnerships in fostering artistic innovation and dialogue. This exhibition marks a significant milestone for Al Burda's rich history and the young Emirati curators who have shaped it during their residency in Toronto,' says H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture. 'Their creative vision and dedication, nurtured by this unique partnership, underscore our shared commitment to supporting emerging voices and advancing cultural diplomacy. By bridging the artistic heritage of the UAE and Canada, we are laying the foundation for a more connected and inclusive global artistic landscape.' Article content Alongside the exhibition, visitors can deepen their experience through a series of talks, lectures, hands-on workshops, dynamic performances, and interdisciplinary programs inspired by poetry, calligraphy, and ornamentation. From a mesmerizing dance, exploring the rhythm and geometry of ornamental design, to deeper meditative reflections on calligraphy, these programs offer an immersive journey beyond the galleries. Article content About the Aga Khan Museum Article content The Aga Khan Museum Article content in Toronto, Canada, has been established and developed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), which is an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Through permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational activities and performing arts, the Museum's mission is to spark wonder, curiosity, and understanding of Muslim cultures and their connection with other cultures through the arts. Designed by architect Fumihiko Maki, the Museum shares a 6.8-hectare site with Toronto's Ismaili Centre, which was designed by architect Charles Correa. The surrounding landscaped park was designed by landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic. Article content The Ministry of Culture works to enrich the cultural ecosystem of the UAE by supporting the country's cultural, art and heritage institutions. It provides a platform for artists and innovators, promotes cross-cultural dialogue, and delivers dynamic productions and experiences that represent the UAE's rich and eclectic culture on a national as well as international level. Article content Article content Article content Contacts Article content FOR PRESS INQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT: Article content Garry Ho Article content Article content Porter Novelli Article content Article content Article content Article content 347.379.3089 Article content Kelly Frances Article content Article content Director, Marketing and Communications Article content Article content Aga Khan Museum Article content Article content Article content Article content
