Sharjah Calligraphy Museum: a cultural delight for art lovers

Situated in the historic house of Hamad Al Midfaa, on Calligraphy Square in the Heart of Sharjah district, this museum welcomes calligraphy enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Sharjah Calligraphy Museum: a haven for Arabic calligraphy fans

The opening of Sharjah Calligraphy Museum highlights Sharjah Museums Authority's commitment to promoting arts, with a particular focus on Arabic art. Being the only museum in the Arab world dedicated solely to Arabic calligraphy, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum is a premier destination for enthusiasts.

Visitors can delve into a wealth of exhibits that reveal the rich history of Arabic scripts, showcasing their diverse styles and evolution. Among these are the early Kufic scripts, as well as the Thuluth and Naskh styles, alongside contemporary forms. The museum also features calligraphic works on diverse materials such as fabric, wood, ceramics, and paper, enriching the visitor experience with a variety of artistic expressions.

Moreover, the museum celebrates the talents of both local and international calligraphers and artists. Its extensive collections feature exceptional works that embody a wide range of creativity. To further support these artists, the museum provides platforms for participation in annual exhibitions, enhancing the visibility of Arabic calligraphy's beauty and historical significance.

This initiative not only reinforces the cultural importance of Arabic calligraphy within Arab-Islamic identity but also raises its artistic profile to a broader audience, both nationally and internationally.

Sharjah Calligraphy Museum: masterpieces adorn its artistic halls

Sharjah Calligraphy Museum boasts three main halls featuring an impressive collection of artworks that trace the historical journey of calligraphy from ancient origins to the present, highlighting its cultural importance.

Alongside the artworks, the museum presents essential tools used by calligraphers, such as inkpots and pens. Notably, it houses a remarkable collection of 18th-century silver ink pots and boxes designed for storing writing pens and inks, generously donated by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This donation enriches visitors' understanding of the historical context and applications of these artefacts.

Dedicated to nurturing a community that values the role of museums in promoting culture and knowledge, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum organises annual temporary exhibitions. These events attract both local and international artists, providing a vital platform for showcasing their works to a broader audience.

Visitors to Sharjah Calligraphy Museum can enjoy a welcoming and enriching experience, supported by a variety of amenities, including a library, gift shop, and relaxation areas, ensuring a fulfilling visit.

Sharjah Calligraphy Museum Promotes Arabic Calligraphy Among Youth

Sharjah Calligraphy Museum goes beyond traditional exhibits, offering an immersive experience for those keen to explore the art of calligraphy. With annual workshops and training sessions, the museum imparts essential skills as well as advanced techniques. Furthermore, it provides a vibrant platform for talented calligraphers to display their work, igniting a passion for this exquisite art form and motivating them to pursue mastery.

The ruling family supports art at Sharjah Calligraphy Museum

Sharjah Calligraphy Museum receives strong support from the ruling family of Sharjah, aligning with the backing given to other cultural institutions in the emirate. A standout event at the museum was the “Versatile Letters” exhibition, showcasing the work of the artist Taj Alsar Hassan. His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, honoured the exhibition with his visit, exploring the artist's creations that embody his inspiration from the Emirate of Sharjah through a distinctive artistic style.

In a further testament to the museum's commitment to celebrating Arabic calligraphy, Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, chairman of the Sharjah Ruler's Office, inaugurated the "Journey of a Letter" exhibition by the artist and calligrapher Wissam Shawkat. This exhibition features works in various Arabic scripts that vividly narrate the artist's life journey, achievements, and significant milestones. 

References 

[1] visitsharjah.com, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum
[2] sharjahmuseums.ae, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum 
[3] sharjahevents.ae, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum
[4] sgmb.ae, Salem bin Abdulrahman opens "Journey of Letter" exhibition
[5] sharjah24.ae, SMA marks 20th anniversary of “Calligraphy Museum” opening