The Sharjah Art Museum is one of the largest art galleries in the Middle East. The works of local and international artists are on display here. Admission is free for everyone. On request, you can arrange a guided tour that will tell you in detail about the exhibits and describe the history of the UAE's cultural heritage.
History
In 1995, the Sharjah Art Museum was founded, at first it worked in Bayt el-Serkal, in 1997 it moved to a new building. The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al-Qasimi. Residents of Sharjah, which is unofficially called the cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates, are proud that in 2018, the Sharjah Art Museum was added to the World List of sites of Special Tourist Attraction. These include the Kremlin in Moscow (Russia), the Taj Mahal in Agra (India), and the Eiffel Tower in central Paris (France).
Description
The building in which the Sharjah Art Museum operates is 2–storied, with a total area of about 111,000 square meters, and there is an underground parking lot where visitors can park their cars during the tour. 68 halls have been opened, and the permanent exhibition is based on the collection of Sheikh Sultan Al-Qasimi. It consists of 8 thematic groups:
- 9 works in different styles, painted in the XVIII century by artists traveling around the world.
- 12 lithographs by the engraver, who was also an orientalist, David Roberts, which depict oriental markets, describe life in Arab cities, and emphasize the architecture of buildings.
- The third set contains more than 10 lithographs reflecting the history of resistance to British troops.
- 12 works in the technique of watercolor by Ali Darvish, which depict the features of ancient neighborhoods, among which towers stand out.
- 8 works in watercolor technique by the same artist, including seascapes.
- There are 5 works by John Harris depicting landscapes of Sharjah in the watercolor style, as well as works by A. Richard describing the details of old markets, boat construction, and fishing features.
- The works of T. Gilbert, perpetuating Al-Dayl and other objects of Sharjah.
- Reproductions of lithographs with old towns and their sights.
Information for visitors
The Sharjah Art Museum organizes temporary exhibitions featuring works of both classical and modern art. International festivals and competitions are held. The building houses the library of the history of fine arts. The books are written in Arabic and English. You can drink tea, coffee, and eat at the cafe, which is open on the premises of the institution. There is also a game room in this place where children can relax while their parents study the work of talented artists.
How to get
The Sharjah Art Museum is located near the waterfront and the city market. The nearest public transport stops are Al Hisn Fort, Rolla Mall, and Al Rolla Park. People often come here by taxi or rented car. You can park your cars in the underground parking lot for the duration of the exhibition, where they are safe and sound. Before traveling, it is recommended to study the opening hours, especially during the holidays, the data may be updated.
Gallery
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