Al Qaseer: The Vision of the Ruler of Sharjah Marked a Turning Point in Arab Artistic Criticism

Al Qaseer: The Vision of the Ruler of Sharjah Marked a Turning Point in Arab Artistic Criticism

Sharjah –

The General Secretariat of the Sharjah Award for Arab Artistic Criticism has approved “Drawing Inspiration from Arab Heritage in Contemporary Arab Visual Art” as the theme for the award’s 16th edition. The award is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.

This announcement came during a meeting held by the General Secretariat at the Department of Culture in Sharjah, during which the theme for the new edition was selected and participation in the award was opened to writers, critics, and those interested in artistic criticism, in accordance with the award's rules and regulations.

Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Department of Culture and Secretary-General of the Award, stated:
"With each new edition, the Sharjah Award for Arab Artistic Criticism reaffirms the importance of the care and support His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah, may God protect him, dedicates to Arab visual arts. Since its inception in 2008, the award has marked a turning point in Arab artistic criticism by promoting visual understanding through notable critical topics and supporting Arab critics."

Al Qaseer added that, in this historical context, the award has secured an important place in the Arab library through documentation, publication, and dissemination. He pointed out that the winning research papers are published and distributed across the Arab world, serving as a bridge to introduce the critic and their work to a wider audience. He explained that the award's successive editions have contributed over 65 research papers to the field of artistic criticism from various Arab countries, including both winning and commended entries selected by the judging panel for publication.

The Secretary-General also highlighted that the current edition’s theme focuses on a compelling topic that has long captivated many Arab artists: Arab heritage. He affirmed that this rich heritage, full of beauty and artistic visions, has deeply inspired their creative works.

The Director of Cultural Affairs noted that the theme of this edition provides Arab critics with broad research opportunities to explore artworks that narrate the stories of people, places, and time throughout Arab history.

It is worth noting that the Sharjah Award for Arab Artistic Criticism is unique in the Arab world in this specific field. It is the only award that addresses a vital artistic subject and highlights the efforts of Arab writers, critics, and academics. While continuously renewing its critical themes and embracing the visual language of wonder, the award has kept pace with the ongoing evolution of the fine arts.