Sharjah Award for Artistic Criticism Research Announces 17th Cycle Theme
The Secretariat of the Sharjah Award for Artistic Criticism Research has announced the theme for its 17th cycle: “Architecture in Arab Visual Arts: Homes and Approaches“. The esteemed award, supported by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, continues to affirm its pivotal place in the region’s cultural landscape.
Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qusair, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Department of Culture and Secretary-General of the award, emphasized the vital role of the Ruler’s ongoing support, calling it “a cornerstone in consolidating Arab visual culture and elevating the role of art criticism as an active partner in developing the visual arts experience.”
He further noted that the launch of this new cycle reflects “the ruler’s deep cultural vision,” particularly his special focus on critical research, intending “to open new horizons for scholars to explore aesthetic and intellectual transformations in Arab visual arts, building a broad, contemporary critical reference.”
Al Qusair explained the award’s impact: “The award has established its presence and secured a significant position in the Arab cultural sphere through documentation, publishing, and dissemination of winning research. This has created a qualitative accumulation of criticism that serves as a reference for scholars and enthusiasts. At the same time, the award has highlighted Arab critics and their contributions, with more than 68 critics participating in past cycles, enriching the Arab critical landscape and enhancing its intellectual presence.”
Regarding this cycle’s theme, he remarked, “The choice of ‘Architecture in Arab Visual Arts: Homes and Approaches‘ reflects the award’s awareness of the deep connection between visual arts and architectural space, which is one of the most important aesthetic and intellectual sources in the Arab visual arts experience. The theme invites multiple critical approaches that examine architecture in artworks, not merely as a visual element, but as a bearer of cultural meaning, memory, and sense of place, allowing analytical readings that reveal shifts in artistic vision and expression in contemporary Arab visual arts.”
The Sharjah Award for Artistic Criticism Research stands unique in the Arab world, being the sole recognition that addresses such a vital artistic topic and brings attention to the work of Arab writers, critics, and academics. While past editions have taken on the themes of innovation and surprise in visual language, the award continues to demonstrate its adaptability to ongoing developments within the fine arts sector.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
