SAF hosts a panel of leading figures in the early UAE contemporary art world

Sharjah Art Foundation (SAF) hosted an exceptional assembly of panelists as part of the Sharjah Biennial 12 Monthly Talks. Moderated by Dr Yousef Aidabi, Advisor at the Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre for Gulf Studies, the panelists consisted of SB12 participating artists Mohammed Kazem and Hassan Sharif; alongside Abdul-Raheem Sharif Founder of Flying House, a non-profit platform that promotes Emirati artists and Artist Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim. On this remarkable occasion, the panelists discussed the development of art and cultural production in the UAE and focused on their own practices as well as their contributions to arts organisations and the fostering of emerging artists in the UAE. This panel discussion was held in support of Sharjah Biennial 12: The past, the present, the possible, which will be on view March 5 through June 5, 2015.

Quoting HH The Ruler of Sharjah Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi, 'Enough of the concrete revolution and shift to empowering people instead,' Dr Aidabi also noted His Highness’s belief in the important role of culture in building and nurturing traditional society. He explained how the work of Artist Hassan Sharif and the establishment of the Emirates Fine Arts Society were the first steps in the creation of a contemporary art scene. The artists emphasised the important contribution made by the Sharjah Biennial to the development of the local art scene and to the establishment of regional and international recognition. They discussed how, since its establishment in 2009, Sharjah Art Foundation has played a leading role in the growing awareness and interest in art within the UAE and the subsequent increase in art events across the Emirates.

Mohammed Kazem highlighted the important role of first generation artists such as Hassan Sharif and Abdul Rahim Salem who made a profound impact on the artists of the second and third generations through the creation of supportive sessions, lectures, workshops and exhibitions. Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim spoke about his personal experience, saying, ' In the beginning I used a self-education theory by reading about the history of art and art criticism. I gained inspiration and knowledge which enabled me to practice art.'

The artists expressed how the media has played a crucial role in developing art through continuous coverage about art events taking place in the UAE. Al-Khaleej newspaper in particular, they noted, has had a dedicated art and culture section since the 1980’s, which included articles about poetry, fine art and theatre. It gave people the opportunity to know more about art in the Arab world by creating a connection between the artists and their audience.

The session ended with questions from the audience that revolved around the current art scene and the new generation of artists. The speakers agreed that new and emerging artists in the UAE all benefit from the growing number of commercial galleries and art events that provide increasing possibilities and artistic platforms.