SMA Launches New Publication at 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair

The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. WAM
The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. WAM
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SMA Launches New Publication at 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair

The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. WAM
The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. WAM

The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair under the theme “This is How We Begin,” inviting visitors on an inspiring journey to explore its museums.

In celebration of this event, SMA has released a new publication titled “Sharjah Museums,” which takes readers on an enthralling journey through the diverse stories within Sharjah’s museums, Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.

The publication reflects the vision of Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who stated, “Museums are made to educate our children and our future generations.” The book is a valuable addition to the cultural library of Sharjah, showcasing the emirate's dedication to preserving its rich heritage.

The book is divided into three comprehensive sections, each spotlighting a unique aspect of Sharjah’s museums, from historical artifacts to Islamic art and modern creativity, WAM said.

The first section, “History and Heritage,” delves into the stages of human existence in Sharjah, presenting rare artifacts from ancient periods, such as the camel figurine discovered in Muweilah, dating back to 900–600 BCE.

The second section, “Art and Culture,” explores Sharjah’s artistic and cultural legacy, showcasing Islamic art and contemporary works that celebrate both local and international creativity.

Finally, the “Discovery and Science” section highlights Sharjah’s contributions to knowledge and discovery, featuring scientific and exploration exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages.

To showcase historical travel techniques and their impact on civilizations, the SMA exhibition platform is designed with three immersive sections that take visitors on a journey of discovery, blending intellectual activities with heritage artifacts.

In the “Journey of Knowledge and Discovery” section, visitors are invited to engage in interactive experiences designed to inspire critical and creative thinking. This section features activities such as the “Color Square,” “Triangle Puzzle,” and “Sense of Touch,” which provide a hands-on experience in a thought-provoking environment.

At the heart of the platform is the “Travel and Exploration Exhibition,” where visitors can explore four unique artifacts from Sharjah Museums that evoke the spirit of discovery and the charm of past journeys. The journey begins with a camel figurine, symbolizing desert expeditions and the deep connection between Arabs and the desert. Discovered at the Muweilah archaeological site in Sharjah, this statue illustrates the camel’s resilience and its essential role in connecting communities across the desert.



Iran Artist's Vision For Culture Hub Enlivens Rustic District

Arabesque patterns feature in Yazdi's creations © ATTA KENARE / AFP
Arabesque patterns feature in Yazdi's creations © ATTA KENARE / AFP
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Iran Artist's Vision For Culture Hub Enlivens Rustic District

Arabesque patterns feature in Yazdi's creations © ATTA KENARE / AFP
Arabesque patterns feature in Yazdi's creations © ATTA KENARE / AFP

In the winding alleys of southern Iran, artist Adel Yazdi has taken it upon himself to turn his rustic old neighbourhood into a cultural and tourist hub through vibrant paintings and carved relief faces.

Narenjestan, a neighbourhood characterized by crumbling, uninhabited houses, is nestled in Shiraz, a southern city celebrated for its historic architecture, lush gardens and revered poets.

"Most of the dilapidated walls in old Shiraz have no historical value," said Yazdi, a bushy-bearded, bespectacled 40-year-old artist who has dedicated himself to revitalising Narenjestan, AFP reported.

Yazdi has over the years turned the long-neglected neighbourhood walls into a vivid visual tapestry "telling the stories of the people living here," he said.

Arabesque patterns and relief faces carved with intricate details and painted in an array of vivid hues of greens, pinks, blues and purples now adorn the walls.

With its striking designs and bright colors, Yazdi's art can be reminiscent of Surrealism. It often comes across as surprising, showcasing a different side of Iran's artistic heritage that goes beyond the conventional focus on Persian or Islamic architecture.

The artwork includes the face of Scheherazade, Yazdi said, referencing the legendary storyteller from the "One Thousand and One Nights" collection of folktales.

Yazdi's work stands out in Shiraz where graffiti and murals are rare, becoming a social media sensation and a tourist attraction.

One visitor, Mahdieh, discovered Yazdi's murals through Instagram.

"I arrived in Shiraz yesterday... and it was the first site I wanted to visit," said the 40-year-old, who declined to give her last name.

At the end of one alleyway, Yazdi has established his workshop in a century-old building with small rooms encircling a serene garden.

He also lives in the building, with a traditional Persian architectural style.

It is filled with artefacts and sculptures, resembling a museum warehouse.

To Maedah, a 30-year-old engineer, Yazdi's house brings to mind "other historical places in the city, such as the Eram Garden and the Mausoleum of the Poet Hafez".

Yazdi said he drew inspiration from the Pompidou Center in Paris, a cultural hub that transformed the heart of the French capital in the 1970s.

He hopes his efforts can turn Shiraz's alleyways into even more of a vibrant cultural center as well.

At his residence, visitors are particularly drawn to what Yazdi calls "the Finger Room."

Inside, he installed around 14,000 finger sculptures on the ceiling, all pointing downward.

"The room is inspired by the legend of an angel that counts raindrops with thousands of fingers," he said, referring to an Islamic fable.

"These fingers are there to constantly remind us that the present moment is precious and that we must seize it."