Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial Welcomes Submissions For Its 11th Edition

The Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial, a prestigious event under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, is now open for submissions. Set to unfold in October of the forthcoming year, this eleventh edition promises to be a vibrant showcase of calligraphic talent from around the globe. Organized by the Cultural Affairs Department at the Department of Culture in Sharjah, the event will span two months, offering a platform for both local and international artists.

The theme for this edition, "Taraqim," has inspired artists worldwide to submit their calligraphic works, ranging from traditional to modern styles. The executive committee is currently in the process of selecting works for the Biennial, with the screening committee's decisions anticipated this May. Mohammad Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of the Cultural Affairs Department and the Biennial's Director, highlighted the event's role as a global platform that bridges cultures through the art of calligraphy.

Al Qaseer further noted the diversity of submissions as a testament to the Biennial's international appeal and its commitment to renewing Arabic calligraphy in innovative ways. The event not only celebrates artistic excellence but also offers substantial prizes, with the main prize standing at US$15,000. Additional prizes include three awards each for both the "Traditional" and "Modern Calligraphic Arts" categories, valued at US$8,000 each, alongside a special prize for Emirati calligraphers also set at US$8,000.

The general exhibition will feature two main sections: "Traditional" and "Modern Calligraphic Arts." The Traditional section will display artworks adhering to artistic and aesthetic traditions across various formats like circular compositions and Kufic scripts. Meanwhile, the Modern Calligraphic Arts section will explore contemporary expressions of calligraphy through sculptures, spatial compositions, and installation arts using diverse artistic tools.

This initiative by Sharjah not only underscores the emirate's commitment to cultural enrichment but also positions it as a pivotal hub for artistic innovation in the region. By fostering an environment that celebrates both heritage and contemporary creativity, the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial continues to attract attention from across the world, setting a stage where art forms transcend cultural boundaries.

With inputs from WAM