Sharjah: H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, officially inaugurated two significant exhibitions at Al Mureijah Art Spaces on Saturday. The exhibitions, part of Sharjah Art Foundation’s Autumn 2024 programme, feature works by internationally renowned artists Bouchra Khalili and Emily Karaka.
Bouchra Khalili’s exhibition, titled “Between Circles and Constellations,” and curated by Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the Sharjah Art Foundation, explores themes of identity, migration, and solidarity. The Moroccan-French artist combines visual and audio elements in her work, highlighting issues such as the erasure of immigrant identities and the importance of a unified human experience.
Khalili’s work stands out for its integration of diverse media, including film, photography, and printmaking. Her projects go beyond traditional artistic classifications, merging fiction and documentary to create new forms of expression. The exhibition reflects her commitment to addressing societal issues through art, particularly the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
In his tour of the exhibition, Sheikh Sultan was accompanied by Sheikha Hoor, Amal Al Ali, and Mira Madhu, assistant curators at the Sharjah Art Foundation. The artist provided a detailed explanation of her works, discussing the ideas and concepts behind each piece.
Emily Karaka, a Maori artist from New Zealand, presents “Ka Awatea: A New Dawn,” an exhibition that reflects the political and cultural struggles of indigenous communities. Curated by Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi and Megan Tamati-Quennell, Karaka’s works are characterized by vibrant colors, expressive intensity, and a strong sense of belonging to her roots. Her art conveys powerful messages about social justice, environmental issues, and indigenous identity.
The exhibition showcases Karaka’s unique perspective on the colonial history of her homeland and the ongoing struggles of the Maori people. Through her work, she challenges conventional narratives and emphasizes the importance of preserving indigenous cultures.
The opening ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Sheikha Nawar bint Ahmed Al Qasimi, Mohammed Obaid Al Zaabi, and numerous artists, intellectuals, and media professionals. The exhibitions reflect the Sharjah Art Foundation’s ongoing commitment to presenting thought-provoking art that fosters cross-cultural dialogue and highlights pressing global issues.
Both exhibitions will be open to the public as part of the foundation’s Autumn 2024 programme, offering visitors a chance to engage with diverse artistic expressions that transcend borders and challenge conventional ideas.
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