Sheikh Sultan opens Contemporary Mediterranean Arab Art exhibition

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated on Wednesday evening "Roots and Modernity: A Celebration of Contemporary Mediterranean Arab Art” exhibition organised by Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) in collaboration with the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts at the Sharjah Art Museum.

His Highness toured the exhibition, which runs until November 24th, viewing the 80 featured masterpieces by prominent figures in contemporary Arab art from the permanent collection of the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts. Sheikh Sultan listened to a detailed explanation of the most significant works that connect traditional influences with modern artistic techniques used by contemporary Arab artists from the southern and eastern Mediterranean, including North Africa, Egypt, and the Levant.

During his tour, His Highness viewed various artworks, including vibrant watercolours, intricate etchings, and expressive bronze sculptures. Noteworthy icons such as "Feast in the Desert" by Jordanian artist Fahrelnissa Zeid and "Mother Palestine" by Palestinian artist Sliman Mansour offered deep insights into the cultural, social, and political narratives that have shaped the region.

Concluding the tour, Sheikh Sultan exchanged gifts and publications with Princess Wijdan Al-Hashemi, President of the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts.

On September 21, the Sharjah Art Museum will host a panel discussion highlighting the curatorial vision behind the exhibition and broader themes of contemporary Mediterranean Arab art. Accompanying the exhibition are museum workshops focusing on clay art, etching, watercolour and ink blending, as well as abstract geometric art for children, allowing participants to engage with art interactively.

The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts is one of the region’s most esteemed cultural institutions, boasting an extensive collection of over 3,000 works from various parts of the world, providing a platform for the global recognition of artists.

The opening was attended by several dignitaries, including Sheikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Head of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah; Sheikh Salem Bin Khalid Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Culture and Youth; Princess Wijdan Al Hashemi; Princess Rajwa Bint Ali, Vice President of the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts; and Sheikha Nawar Bint Ahmed Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, among other senior officials, heads, and directors of governmental bodies.