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RETHINKING THE FUTURE OF ISLAMIC ARTS AND HERITAGE
In line with the International Day of Islamic Art, proclaimed by UNESCO on 18 November 2019 to raise awareness of Islamic arts and their contributions to human civilization, the University of Sharjah hosted an international forum entitled “Rethinking the Future of Islamic Arts and Heritage.”
The forum was organized by the Sharjah International Foundation for the History of Arab and Muslim Sciences (SIFHAMS) at the University of Sharjah, in collaboration with the Regional Office for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage in the Arab States (ICCROM–Sharjah), as part of its ongoing “Arab Forum for Cultural Heritage” program.
The forum aimed to provide a multidisciplinary platform for dialogue on Islamic artistic and architectural legacies, addressing their relevance in both contemporary and future contexts. It brought together a distinguished group of academics and practitioners to explore the role of Islamic arts in bridging historical periods and geographical boundaries, fostering cultural convergence, and promoting intercultural dialogue.
Participants presented a range of case studies from across the Islamic world, highlighting the evolution of Islamic arts and their influence on diverse cultures, as well as their continued impact on shaping present and future cultural identities. The forum integrated both theoretical and applied perspectives, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of Islamic arts and heritage.
Discussions also addressed key issues related to the preservation, interpretation, and presentation of Islamic heritage, including its role in fostering dialogue across ethnic and religious boundaries, and the importance of museums and exhibitions in raising public awareness and appreciation of Islamic artistic legacies.
His Excellency Prof. Hamid Majul Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, delivered the opening address, expressing his deep appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah, and President of the University of Sharjah, for his continued and unwavering support for Arab cultural heritage at the local, regional, and international levels.
He also commended the efforts of SIFHAMS and ICCROM–Sharjah in organizing the forum, noting that it aligns with the Foundation’s mission to revive Arab and Muslim scientific heritage through documentation, preservation, research, publication, and translation. He emphasized that the forum reflects the cultural and strategic vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, serving as a vital platform for dialogue, exchange of ideas, and cross-cultural engagement.
Dr. Webber Ndoro, Director-General of ICCROM, also delivered a keynote address, highlighting that the forum celebrates the International Day of Islamic Art by creating a space for multidisciplinary discussions on Islamic artistic and architectural heritage. He noted that the initiative aligns with ICCROM’s mission of “Conserving Culture, Promoting Diversity,” and reflects a shared commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering global dialogue.
Dr. Zaki Aslan, Director of ICCROM–Sharjah, emphasized that the forum seeks to explore the deeper meanings and values embedded in Islamic arts and heritage, beyond their aesthetic dimensions. He highlighted the importance of understanding creativity in relation to human needs and environmental contexts, and how such insights can inform museum practices and the preservation of living architectural spaces.
Her Excellency Manal Ataya, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, expressed her appreciation for participating in the forum, noting its importance in exploring the role of Islamic art in connecting civilizations. She highlighted the contributions of the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization in showcasing Islamic artistic and scientific achievements and promoting intercultural and interfaith dialogue since its establishment in 1996.
The forum addressed several key themes, including the role of Islamic artistic heritage in connecting cultures and geographies, and its contribution to dialogue among civilizations. The first day’s program, held at the University of Sharjah, featured a series of panel discussions and presentations.
The opening session was moderated by Prof. Mesut Idriz, Director of SIFHAMS and Head of the Department of Islamic History and Civilization at the University of Sharjah. It included presentations by Dr. Ahmad Paul Keeler on “Islam and Converging Cultures: The Case of Architecture,” and Prof. Amir Bašić on “Strategies for Preserving and Developing Islamic Arts and Heritage.”
A second session featured a presentation by Dr. Antonio Almagro titled “The Islamic World as a Space for the Dissemination of Forms and Knowledge: Examples from Architecture.” Additional contributions included Mr. Rashad Bukhash on “The Future of Culture and Arts in the UAE,” and Ms. Aisha Deemas on “Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: A Platform for Interfaith Dialogue.”
The first day concluded with a visit to the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization and the exhibition “Drop by Drop, Life Falls from the Sky: Water, Islam and Art.”
The forum reflects the University of Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to advancing research, fostering cultural dialogue, and preserving the rich artistic and intellectual heritage of the Islamic world.
