SAM to celebrate 28th Anniversary with “Between Arts”

Coinciding with International Art Day, the celebration underscores the museum’s longstanding commitment to fostering creativity, deepening community engagement, and enhancing the cultural landscape of the UAE.

Visitors to the museum will be invited to explore a special archive exhibition, showcasing a curated selection of publications and photographs from exhibitions dating back to the museum’s inauguration in 1997.

The display pays tribute to nearly three decades of artistic expression and offers a visual timeline of the institution’s contributions to the local and regional art scenes.

At the heart of the anniversary celebration is a special panel discussion titled “Emerging Fine Arts in the UAE”, which will take place on both days from 5:00pm to 6:00pm.

The sessions will bring together a distinguished group of Emirati artists whose work has significantly shaped the nation’s visual identity including Jumaa Al Haj, Saqqaf Al Hashmi, Mahra Al Falahi, and Noura Al Hashmi.

The panel will reflect on the journey of fine arts in the Emirates while offering a glimpse into the future of artistic practice in the country.

It will also explore the pivotal contribution of Sharjah Art Museum in nurturing talent and advancing the art movement and highlight the power of art in fostering communication and understanding across cultures, especially in today’s interconnected world.

Complementing the intellectual depth of the discussion are a series of interactive and hands-on art workshops, performances, and community activities designed to engage audiences of all ages.

Among the highlights is a jewelry recreation workshop led by artist Salam Swaid, in which participants aged 13 and above will have the opportunity to dismantle vintage necklaces and reassemble them into modern designs, exploring the interplay between tradition and innovation.

On the second day, artist Dr Karima Al Shomely will lead a linocut printing session, guiding participants through the process of sketching, carving, and inking original designs—a nod to the enduring appeal of printmaking as an expressive medium.

Younger visitors can look forward to a range of creative experiences crafted especially for them, including a paper painting activity, where coloured pulp and glue transform into vibrant three-dimensional artwork; a playful abstract art session using spray bottles in place of paintbrushes; and a bag printing workshop, where natural elements like lemon slices are used to create unique textile designs.

The evenings will be brought to life by live music performances, creating a captivating fusion of sound and visual art. Adding to the festive atmosphere, visitors can enjoy competitions, interactive games, and a selection of food trucks.

Through its diverse programme offering a dynamic platform for creative expression, cultural reflection, and community connection, the event invites the public to explore how art continues to shape identity, inspire dialogue, and bridge tradition with contemporary thought, further strengthening Sharjah Art Museum’s role as a vital cultural hub in the UAE and the wider region.