The Sharjah Art Foundation has announced its Artist Residency and Studio programs, marking a significant step towards enhancing the art scene in the Emirate of Sharjah. These programs provide artists with exceptional opportunities to create and work in artistic environments that range from heritage sites to contemporary spaces. The initiatives aim to support creators across various art fields, paving the way for new innovations in the world of art.
Overview of the Programs and Locations
The Sharjah Art Foundation has introduced the Artist Residency and Studio programs, hosted in repurposed heritage houses as well as modern and contemporary art spaces spread throughout the Emirate of Sharjah. Both programs draw inspiration from the tangible and intangible presence of water, with locations extending from the historic district overlooking the Sharjah Creek to the Al Hamriyah coast and the city of Kalba on the Gulf of Oman.
Studio Program
The Studio program offers a diverse range of creative spaces for artists at different stages of their artistic careers. The program allows for studio rentals of up to three years and provides free workspaces for recent graduates from fine arts colleges and graduate students. This program encourages the development of artistic skills and helps artists bring their ideas to life.
Artist Residency Program
The Artist Residency program is designed to support visual artists, performing artists, writers, poets, researchers, musicians, filmmakers, and other creatives. The program includes travel tickets and transportation within the emirate, as well as accommodation and a monthly stipend. It also provides residents with access to the foundation’s network and resources, enhancing opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Application Process and Designated Locations
The application process for the Artist Residency program will begin soon, while an open call for the Studio program will be announced later this year. The locations that will host these programs include the Collections Building, the House of Obaid Al Shamsi, and the Alserkal House in Arts Square in the heart of Sharjah, as well as the Al Hamriyah Studios in the city of Al Hamriyah and the Kalba Ice Factory in the city of Kalba. Each of these sites has its unique historical significance and reflects the cultural diversity of the emirate.
Unique Program Locations
The Collections Building, previously used for exhibitions and the storage of artworks, has now become a center for workshops and artists’ studios. The House of Obaid Al Shamsi, overlooking the creek in the Al Shuwaihin neighborhood, has been renovated to serve as an open space for artists, showcasing installation works as part of the Sharjah Biennial events.
The Alserkal House, which was formerly the personal residence of Issa bin Abdul Latif Alserkal, has recently been transformed into a center for arts and culture, hosting a variety of events. The Al Hamriyah Studios are designed to be a vibrant artistic community with multifunctional spaces for artists’ work.
Finally, the Kalba Ice Factory, renovated to meet the needs of artists, provides an ideal creative environment with stunning views of the surrounding nature.
These initiatives demonstrate the Sharjah Art Foundation’s passion for promoting the arts and supporting artists, making the Emirate of Sharjah a rich hub for creativity and innovation.