Anticipation Builds for Sharjah Biennial 16: A Platform for Multivocal Dialogues and Creativity
As the cultural landscape of the Middle East continues to evolve, the Sharjah Biennial is set to reaffirm its position as a crucible for contemporary art, dialogue, and innovation. Running from February 6 to 9, 2025, this year’s edition, titled “To Carry,” aims to explore a multitude of interpretations surrounding the concepts of carrying and transportation, both literal and metaphorical. This biennial will invite visitors into an immersive experience that not only showcases a blend of artistic expressions but also emphasizes the transformative power of art as a societal conduit.
The thematic proposition of “To Carry” beckons a community of artists, curators, and audiences to contemplate what it means to take on the world’s burdens, aspirations, and meanings. A central component of this year’s event is its focus on perspectives from five distinguished curators, whose diverse backgrounds and insights will shape the direction of the exhibition. Each curator brings their unique vision, inviting participants to engage with a multifaceted narrative that reflects today’s complexities.
Spanning various locations within the Emirate of Sharjah—including Sharjah City, Al Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Kalba, and Al Madam—the opening programme will showcase more than 300 artworks, among which are 80 new commissions. Over 140 artists will contribute to this grand artistic endeavor, promising a rich tapestry of views expressed through performances, visual art, film, and conversation. This extensive reach serves to engage a broad audience across diverse cultural backgrounds, fostering inclusivity in the arts.
In addition to the exhibition itself, the Biennial will incorporate a dynamic range of supplementary activities, including workshops, film screenings, performances, and critical discussions. These programs aim to deepen the experience and understanding of the themes at play, creating a platform for dialogue about the multifarious issues that artists and communities confront today.
Scheduled Highlights in March and April
Following the opening events, the Sharjah Biennial will continue to engage its audience through the March Meeting, scheduled for March 7 to 9, 2025. Set to unfold during the sacred month of Ramadan, this meeting will dedicate three evenings to discussions that resonate with the Biennial’s overarching theme of “To Carry.” Designed as an intellectually stimulating experience, attendees may partake in communal meals, critical conversations, performances, and workshops.
In light of the Ramadan spirit, the schedule has been tailored to accommodate evening gatherings, creating a cozy environment conducive to deep reflection. Among the highlights will be sessions exploring polyphonic modes of storytelling, indigenous perspectives on transformation, and live poetry readings—all aimed at enriching the collective experience of those present.
April will see the introduction of “April Acts,” taking place from April 18 to 20, 2025. This new weekend initiative is designed to amplify various aspects of the Biennial, with a series of panel discussions, artist talks, participatory workshops, film screenings, and live music performances. This sustained engagement aims to provide visitors with ongoing opportunities to interact with artists and the themes presented throughout the Biennial from different angles.
As the event unfolds over its four-month duration, there will be a consistent flow of programming, including weekly screenings and workshops tailored for a spectrum of age groups. This robust offering demonstrates the organizers’ commitment to fostering an accessible and vibrant cultural dialogue in Sharjah and beyond.
For those interested in exploring contemporary art in all its facets, the Sharjah Biennial 16 promises to be an enriching experience that transcends conventional boundaries. Visitors can anticipate not only discovering a wide array of artistic talents but also a deeper appreciation for the pressing narratives that shape the world today.
For more information and registration for events, please visit sharjahart.org.
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