Sharjah Islamic Art Festival opens
A destination for art lovers from across the world, the festival will run for 40 days
The 24th edition of the Sharjah Islamic Art Festival organised by the Department of Culture in Sharjah, opened on December 15 at the Sharjah Art Museum Sharjah Museums Authority. Additional artworks will be available to view at Al-Majaz Waterfront and Maraya Art Centre.
As many as 248 artworks by 63 artists representing 27 countries will be showcased this year’s event.
There will be over 150 different events. These include art workshops, exhibitions and talks hosted in association with 26 bodies such as the Emirates Society for Fine Arts and Arab Photographers Union.
Mohamed Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs at Sharjah Department of Culture and Information stated at a press conference: “Thanks to His Highness’s wise vision in raising the cultural and artistic discourse together, to take it as a path to the renaissance of this intellectual project.”
Established in 2006 by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, as an independent government department. the Sharjah Museums Authority is part of his vision of promoting art and culture across the Emirate and the UAE.
Sharjah Museum Authority encompasses 16 museums which cover Islamic art and culture, archaeology, heritage, science, marine life and the history of Sharjah and the wider region.
It aims to deliver impeccable museums services for the people of Sharjah, as well as visitors. There is immense focus on learning programmes, research and community outreach.