Sharjah Museums honour top young photographers at student exhibition

Sharjah: Sharjah Museums Authority has launched the second edition of its “I am at Sharjah Museums” photography exhibition, showcasing the winning works of students from public and private schools across the UAE. The exhibition opened on Saturday (November 22) at Al Qasimiya School – Museum of Education in Sharjah, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Sharjah Private Education Authority.

Running until 22 April 2026, the exhibition presents the top entries from the student photography competition for Cycle 2 and Cycle 3. The initiative aims to enhance students’ engagement with museums and encourage them to express their understanding of culture and heritage through visual storytelling.

The opening was attended by officials, teachers, students, and parents. During the ceremony, awards were presented to the winning participants as well as the schools with the highest involvement. Guests then took a guided tour of the exhibition, during which students introduced their photographs and explained their concepts.

More than 547 photographs were submitted following the competition announcement in September. A total of 20 students were recognised — ten from Cycle 2 and ten from Cycle 3. Among the schools awarded for high participation rates were Al Ansar International School in Sharjah, GEMS Our Own English High School – Sharjah, and the Secondary Model School for Boys – Sharjah.

The photographs on display were taken during visits to 16 museums operated by the Sharjah Museums Authority. Many of the images highlight the architectural beauty, artifacts, and objects that reflect Sharjah’s cultural heritage. Students used the medium to present personal narratives and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the emirate’s history.

Standout works include a portrait of an Emirati craftsman at Sharjah Maritime Museum documenting traditional net-making; “Emirati Elegance” from Sharjah Heritage Museum showcasing the symbolism of national dress; “Marine Compass” from Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization illustrating scientific advancement in Islamic history; and “Wooden Wonders” from Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi highlighting the craftsmanship of traditional woodwork.

Veda Abhilash Narayanan from GEMS Millennium School – Sharjah, one of this year’s winners, said she was proud to have participated. “I have always had a passion for photography, and when my school shared the circular, it motivated me to explore Sharjah Museums in search of the perfect moment to capture.”

Her photograph, titled “Voices Across Time”, depicts a traditional Emirati woman watching over figurines representing local folklore. “My aim was to merge traditional elements and stories to create a visually expressive image that reflects our heritage,” she added.

Sharjah Museums Authority noted that the exhibition reflects its mission to position museums as dynamic educational platforms that support communities, foster identity, and build knowledge among the younger generation. With museums across Sharjah, Khorfakkan, and Kalba, the emirate continues to showcase its rich artistic, historical, and cultural legacy.

The Authority added that ongoing editions of the exhibition aim to strengthen cultural awareness among students and provide enriching learning experiences that inspire creativity and national pride.