Culture

Sharjah Art Museum: A Must-Visit for Art Lovers

One of the best tourist attractions in Sharjah, UAE

WaleedMay 23, 2021Last Updated: August 22, 2023

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Sharjah Art Museum: A Beacon of Culture and Expression

A special world of beauty and creativity

Where is Sharjah Art Museum located?

What are the landmarks close to Sharjah Art Museum?

What are the dates for visiting Sharjah Art Museum?

What are the prices of entry tickets for Sharjah Art Museum?

Photo tour inside the Sharjah Art Museum

Sharjah Art Museum: A Beacon of Culture and Expression

In the heart of Sharjah, one of the emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, lies a haven of art and culture that offers a rich palette of artistic expressions: the Sharjah Art Museum. Since its establishment in 1997, the museum has not only played an essential role in promoting local and regional art but has also bridged the gap between Eastern and Western artistic traditions. In this article, we will journey through the corridors of the Sharjah Art Museum, understanding its significance and offerings.

History and Architecture

Sprawling over 111,000 square feet, the Sharjah Art Museum boasts modern architecture infused with traditional elements. It captures the essence of Sharjah’s commitment to preserving its culture while fostering global exchanges. The museum has 72 galleries spread over three floors, encompassing a vast array of artistic mediums.

The Collections

One of the remarkable aspects of the Sharjah Art Museum is its diverse collection. The permanent collection showcases artwork from the 18th century to the present, with a particular emphasis on artists from the Arab world. Key themes include landscapes, cityscapes, portraits, and interpretations of historical events.

Barjeel Art Foundation Collection: This collection is a testimony to the museum’s commitment to contemporary Arab art. It features works by significant 20th-century artists, shedding light on the socio-political changes and challenges faced by the region.
The Orientalist Collection: Paying homage to Western artists who were fascinated by the Middle East and North Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries, this collection captures the mystique of the region from an outsider’s perspective. These paintings often romanticize the life and landscapes of the region.
Modern and Contemporary Art: Artists from the UAE and the broader Arab world have their works showcased, reflecting the changes, aspirations, and dreams of a rapidly evolving society.

Events and Workshops

Beyond the exhibits, the Sharjah Art Museum actively promotes art education and appreciation. Regular workshops, lectures, and symposiums are organized, catering to all age groups. These events aim to nurture emerging talent, stimulate public interest in the arts, and foster a culture of lifelong learning.

The Sharjah Biennial

One cannot discuss the Sharjah Art Museum without mentioning the Sharjah Biennial. Organized by the Sharjah Art Foundation, this event has grown to be a pivotal moment in the international art calendar. The biennial transforms the museum and other spaces in Sharjah into a melting pot of innovative ideas, bringing together artists, curators, and scholars from around the world.

The Sharjah Art Museum serves as a testament to Sharjah’s position as a center for culture and artistic exchange. By juxtaposing historic artwork with contemporary pieces, the museum challenges its visitors to reflect on the past, understand the present, and envision the future. It stands as a beacon, illuminating the rich tapestry of cultures and narratives that the Arab world has to offer. For art enthusiasts, historians, and curious visitors alike, the Sharjah Art Museum is a must-visit destination.

A special world of beauty and creativity

The Sharjah Art Museum, one of the region’s largest art galleries, houses a permanent collection of works and paintings created by some of the world’s most famous creative artists since its opening in 2007. Stunning works of Arab art created by artists who have made a lasting impact on Arab art can teach you a lot about the region’s history.

Each of the museum’s three floors showcases more than 500 works of art that were created using a variety of expressive approaches in order to engage and inspire visitors. Throughout the year, the museum hosts a variety of art exhibitions and events. More than 4,000 books in Arabic, English, and other languages as well as audio-visual materials are available in the museum’s art library.

Where is Sharjah Art Museum located?

The Sharjah Art Museum is located across the street from the Emirates Arts Society in Sharjah’s Arts District, Sweihan. This region’s streets are lined with shops and heritage markets, and many of the buildings are from the region’s rich history.

Museum site map