Loading...
Loading...
This initiative reflects Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi's vision of integrating the arts into everyday life in Sharjah, allowing the public to connect with these artworks in natural, cultural, and tourist environments. It also provides an opportunity for visitors to experience art as a vital element of the community, extending beyond the scope of the Tanweer Festival.
Among the featured installations is "The Guardians" by Egyptian artist Rabab Tantawy, now situated at the entrance of Mleiha National Park. This artwork, made from the desert sand of Mleiha, depicts three intertwined figures that represent strength and protection, serving as a reminder of humanity’s bond with the environment.
The Lebanese artist duo Karim + Elias created a permanent land art installation called "The Desert Relics." This installation features twelve large totems made from layers of sand, embedded in the mountain range along the road from the entrance of Mleiha National Park to the Tanweer Festival Site. Five smaller units will be relocated to the nearby Moon Retreat, providing visitors with a glimpse of the expansive installation just a few kilometres away.
At the Moon Retreat, visitors will also encounter Emirati artist Zeinab Alhashemi’s piece, "Toroid," which consists of seven stone sections, one of which is missing. This artwork explores the concept of broken continuity and the significance of the number 7 in various cultures. It invites visitors to step inside and see an altered perspective.
Not far from the Moon Retreat, the entrance of Al Badayer Retreat features the work "Star Circle" by UAE-based British artist Patricia Millns. Inspired by the 12th-century poet Rumi, this piece reflects on themes of light and illumination. Created as a white metal structure in the shape of a star overlaid with a circle, it subtly emits light through circular surface perforations, offering a contemplative experience to arriving visitors.
On Khorfakkan Beach, another iconic destination, Emirati artist Azza Al Qubaisi has created "Rumi’s Path," inspired by the poetry of Rumi. This installation features two spiralling entrances that guide visitors along a gently curved pathway, leading to a cylindrical room designed for peace and contemplation. Calligraphy on the ceiling of this room mimics an oriel window, offering a space for personal enlightenment.
Rumi’s poetry is further celebrated in "Gate of Wisdom," designed by Syrian, Dubai-based artist Nedaa Elias, located on Flag Island. This three-part gate features 17 verses from Rumi’s poetry, rendered into square Kufic calligraphy. The verses explore the poet’s insights into the human self, relationships with others, and connection to a higher being.
Additionally, Khorfakkan Beach will feature a wooden bench titled "La Mutanah: An Infinite Majlis," designed by Syrian, UAE-based architect Ahmad Kattan. This modern seating area reimagines the traditional Emirati Majlis as a space for conversation and connection, going beyond its traditional purpose. Inspired by the smooth form of the Möbius strip, the piece symbolises community, where shared stories intertwine like threads linking people and time.
Finally, Al Noor Island in Sharjah will showcase Emirati designer Khalid Alshafar's work, "Palm Oasis." Drawing inspiration from the palm tree, a key symbol in Emirati culture this installation blends heritage with modernity. Resembling the palm of a hand, the artwork features 27 palm trees that create a visual oasis, offering shelter and care to those who seek it. It also highlights sustainability, as it was crafted from previously discarded construction wood.
With these installations, Sharjah’s natural and tourist sites are enriched by large-scale, immersive artworks, improving the open spaces for everyone's enjoyment.
For an optimal experience, please
rotate your device to portrait mode.
