United Arab Emirates, Sharjah, October 4, 2023
Sheikha Nawar Al Qassimi, Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, opened yesterday, Wednesday, the latest edition of “Lasting Impressions” exhibition series organized by Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) and dedicated this year to the Palestinian-American artist Samia Halaby.
Held at Sharjah Art Museum, the exhibition’s inauguration was in the presence of Sheikh Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi, founder of the Barjeel Art Foundation, Her Excellency Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, the artist Samia Halaby, curator Inass Yassin, as well as a number of cultural figures and art aficionados.
The exhibition, which will continue until the 7th of January 2024, is part of the ‘Lasting Impressions’ series which focuses on highlighting key artists from the region who have contributed to shaping modern Arab art.
The extensive exhibition showcases more than 200 diverse pieces by Halaby, tracing her artistic journey over six decades. The collection includes various works from her journey, ranging from recent digital abstract paintings to poignant documentary sketches, and collections from several lenders-, including Halaby’s own New York studio.
It offers visitors the opportunity to delve into Samia Halaby’s unique artistic voyage, gaining insight into her pivotal role as a Palestinian artist and activist in influencing contemporary Arab art and leaving an evident and lasting impact on the global art scene.
The show provides an in-depth view of a prominent abstract artist in the Arab world, featuring pieces that encapsulate her lifelong exploration of image creation and abstraction. Her art delves into geometric interplay with vision and perception, transcending mere realistic interpretation to embody aesthetic ideals, setting a distinct standard in the realm of abstract art.
Through the exhibition, SMA enables the Palestinian artist to share her unique viewpoints on image creation and drawing as an independent artistic discipline, distinct from her commitment to portraying the Palestinian narrative.
The exhibition also offers the public an opportunity to understand the technological aspects and the breadth of the artist’s work, as well as the diversity within the broader field of abstract art.
Sharjah Museums Authority expressed strong gratitude for the significant support and help received from the Samia Halaby Foundation. Additionally, the authority extended heartfelt thanks to all lenders and institutions involved and their generous support.
The exhibition organised by Sharjah Museums Authority and curated by Inass Yassin—continues the tradition of generosity, excellence, and innovation of the Authority and it aligns with its ongoing endeavours to elevate the arts and culture while offering a stage for eminent artists.
Notably, artist Samia Halaby was born in 1936 in Jerusalem, Palestine, and stands as a pioneering figure in the contemporary abstract movement. Relocating to the United States in 1951, she maintained a strong connection to her Palestinian heritage throughout her extensive career.
Her impactful journey—originating from the experiences of exile and displacement in 1948—has fueled a steadfast advocacy for both Palestinian and human rights, serving as a muse for her deep body of work. A highlight of the showcase will be a series dedicated to the Kafr Qasem massacre, symbolising her enduring commitment to her roots and the history of her people.
Accompanying events
Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is hosting an array of cultural events and workshops designed for different community segments that will accompany the latest edition of “lasting Impressions” exhibition series.
This includes a sign language tour aimed at individuals with hearing impairments. Additionally, special guided tours and complimentary educational programs are being offered for school students.
In collaboration with the University of Sharjah’s College of Fine Arts and Design, Sharjah Art Museum will also hold the “Panel Discussion with Artist Samia Halaby,” event which will be featuring exhibition curator Inass Yassin and moderated by Sultan Al Qassemi.
The event will take place on Saturday, September 23, 2023, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm and is open to the public. Those interested in participating can register through the following link: https://rb.gy/zwtch.
Among the engaging offerings, SMA is also hosting the “Music of Colours” workshop, inspired by Samia Halaby’s work. This workshop aims to give children with disabilities, aged 7 to 14, the chance to delve intothe realm of abstract art. Participants will express themselves through various colours and shapes while learning artistic techniques. The workshop promotes the creation of participants’ own abstract pieces.
Meanwhile, another workshop invites attendees aged 18 and up to examine Samia Halaby’s “The Yellow Spiral” before embarking on their own artistic journeys.
Additionally, the “Creativity Series” workshop enables teens aged 13 to 17 to explore how nature influences Samia Halaby’s abstract art, guiding them to create their own nature-inspired pieces.
For more information about Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) and our exhibitions, please visit: https://www.sharjahmuseums.ae
