Haitham Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Opens International Museum Day Activities At Bait Shaikh Saeed Al Qasimi Museum

Sheikh Haitham bin Saqr bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Chief of the Sharjah Ruler's Office in Kalba, opened events marking the International Museum Day at the Bait Shaikh Saeed Al Qasimi Museum, an affiliate of Sharjah Museum Department (SMD), with the participation of two Emirati and one Omani artists and eight schools in Kalba, from 21-31 May.

The 10-day event aims to highlight the importance of cultural diversity as a key driver for society’s development while raising appreciation for local heritage. The theme stems from SMD’s belief that the rich diversity of nationalities and religions present in the UAE and the cross-cultural exchange that takes place on a daily basis are essential building blocks for a constantly innovating society.

The event will showcase works by two Emirati artists Mohammed Al Hammadi and Wafa Al Hammadi and one Omani artist, Abdul Nasser bin Ibrahim Al Sayegh. Mohammed Al Hammadi will exhibit seven paintings from a series titled “Beach Pearls,” which depicts the emirate’s sandy beaches, marine nature and unique geography. Through his participation in the event, Al Hammadi aims to strengthen the value placed on nature-inspired UAE art.

Contributing Omani artist Abdul Nasser bin Ibrahim Al Sayegh is known for his philosophical approach to the region’s respected tradition of Arabic calligraphy. His paintings break conventional rule by combining Arabic calligraphy with pure white spaces. The work is intended to capture viewers’ attention and draw them into a world of meditation, reflection, and fantasy.

UAE-based artist and engineer Wafa Al Hammadi will exhibit a series of seven paintings that reflect Kalba’s traditional architecture and highlight principles of Islamic architecture.

Bait Shaikh Saeed Al Qasimi Museum will host an exhibition featuring artworks created by talented local students of all ages. The works of art span many different mediums and will take visitors on imaginative journeys through the eyes of a child.

In preparation for International Museum Day festivities, a host of educational workshops focusing on arts, crafts, and UAE heritage were held 11-15 May. The lineup included a workshop on painting on glass and acrylics conducted with students from Al Qudwa Primary Model School, and an Al Mandous workshop for pupils from Wadi Al Helo Model Primary and Secondary School.

Students at Al Qudwa Model Primary School and Omair Ibn Abi Waqqas Model Primary school enjoyed an instructive ceramics workshop, while boys at Omair Ibn Abi Waqqas Model Primary School and Abdul Rahman Nasser Model Primary School enjoyed learning about the history of the ghutra (men’s head covering) and agal (double black cord on top).

Eager participants from Fatima bint Malik Model Primary School and Oum Al Fadhl bint Hamza Model Primary School took part in a Fabrics and Heritage workshop and a Burqa workshop. A second session on ceramics and traditional pottery was held with students from Al Hijra Model Primary School.

Emirate:  Sharjah

Date: May 21, 2014

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