Sharjah24: Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is poised to participate in the 21st edition of Sharjah Heritage Days, a vibrant showcase of diverse heritage and culture, organized by the Sharjah Heritage Institute.

This year's event themed "Connect," is set to captivate visitors from February 22 to March 3 in the historic Heart of Sharjah, an area celebrated for its rich cultural legacy.

Embodying the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who believes that "Museums are made to educate our children and our future generations." SMA is dedicated to maintaining its spaces as dynamic venues offering unconventional and innovative ways of learning, disseminating knowledge, and making cultural education accessible and engaging for all age groups.

Throughout the event, SMA will grant free entry to its museums, located within the heart of Sharjah, including Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn), Sharjah Calligraphy Museum, and Bait Al Naboodah, in addition to Hisn Khorfakkan.

This invitation encourages the public to delve into the extensive collections on display and participate in a plethora of activities that vividly reflect the UAE's identity and its rich history. 

A standout feature of the Authority’s involvement is the “Museums Express,” a novel mobile bus museum initiative. 

Operational at the Heart of Sharjah on February 22, March 1, and March 3, and at Dibba Al Hisn on February 28, this initiative will enable visitors to journey through various Sharjah Museum collections, offering unique educational experiences.

Additionally, SMA is hosting a diverse array of workshops designed to immerse visitors in the rich tapestry of the Emirate's heritage and history. 

These include the “Al Hisn Towers” workshop at Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn), which will educate participants about the fort’s towers before guiding them in creating their own replicas.

The “Hisn Doors” workshop, at the same venue, will delve into the history of this iconic 1823 AD edifice, culminating in a hands-on session where attendees will craft replicas of the fort’s doors.

Both events being held at this landmark, offer a detailed look into the modern history of Sharjah, the legacy of the ruling family, the fort's historical significance, ancient defence tactics, the governance system, and everyday life in the emirate. 

To further enrich the experience, Bait Al Naboodah constructed in 1845 AD and renowned for its exquisite heritage architecture featuring Roman-inspired wooden columns and intricate decorations, hosts the “Traditional Ornamentation” workshop where participants paint floral and geometric designs on gypsum casts. 

Bait Al Naboodah will also host a Cultural Café program offered by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage on selected dates from 6:00pm to 9:00pm with an aim to nurture cultural engagement and enhance understanding of Emirati heritage through interactive discussions and activities.

Sharjah Calligraphy Museum, home to artistic works by prominent local and international calligraphers, is offering a “Letter Pendant workshop that teaches participants to craft unique pendants featuring colourful wires, bright beads, and elegant Arabic letters, suitable for decorating phones, bags, and more.

“Palm Trees Workshop,”, “Heritage Bag Workshop” and “Heritage Cups Workshop” at Sharjah Heritage Museum which showcases the authentic heritage and vibrant culture of Emiratis spanning decades, and highlights noble Arab customs and traditions, promoting adherence to these ancestral legacies as a source of pride for future generations, will provide avenues for creative expression rooted in cultural heritage.

Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi in Kalba, recently reopened, serves as a poignant reminder of a venerable era of the past. Features a photo exhibition titled 'Geometric and Floral Ornaments,' displaying the geometric and floral designs used in Bait Sheikh Saeed as part of their participation. It highlights the artistic aspects and aesthetic value as decorative elements that enhance the architectural and structural value.
This exhibition is in harmony with the roots of Islamic Arab art, celebrating the UAE's traditional crafts and artistic heritage. Additionally, special workshops for children titled "Plasterworks" will be hosted over two days.

Exhibitions at SMA’s museums located in the Heart of Sharjah offer a deep dive into Emirati culture and art. 

These include "Reflections and Inspirations from Emirati Heritage" at Sharjah Heritage Museum until April 15, 2024, showcasing artworks by University of Sharjah's College of Fine Arts and Design students that celebrate Emirati heritage. 

At Bait Al Naboodah, the "The Art of Architectural Decoration in the Emirate of Sharjah" photographic exhibition, open for six months, explores Sharjah's architectural beauty and the unique features of its buildings and is based on a photography contest held by the Authority between September and November last year.

Additionally, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum will present the "Honourable Ornament" exhibition from March 1 until August 18, 2024. 

Organized by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Sharjah Heritage Days annually kick off in a vibrant, festive atmosphere. This significant cultural event aims to acquaint both current and future generations with the rich traditions of the past, offering a deep dive into authentic customs that define the ancestral heritage. It serves as a vivid reflection of Emirati identity and a celebration of its historical nobility.

For more information about the event schedules, timings, and locations visit the Authority’s official website https://www.sharjahmuseums.ae/