The Sharjah Museums Department (SMD) has announced the launch of the 3rd edition of the “Lasting Impressions” exhibition, which will host renowned Emirati artist Abdulqader Al Rais.
The announcement was made during a press conference, which was held at the Sharjah Art Museum recently. The exhibition, which hosts prominent Arab artists, hosted Syrian artist Ismail Al Rifai in its first edition, and Emirati artist Najat Meky in the second edition. This Exhibition is the first retrospective of this size for the artist Abdulqader Al Rais, which includes some very early works from the 1970s until very recent ones, and other pieces of political nature.
SMD stated that hosting Al Rais comes in honour of his career achievements and in recognition of his significant contribution to all aspects of fine arts and artistic creativity in the country. Through the works of one selected artist every year, the exhibition is intended to highlight outstanding local and Arab artistic works that have a distinguished presence in the Arab contemporary cultural landscape.
Attendees welcomed Abdulqader Al Rais, one of the most important and highly celebrated artists of the UAE and expressed their appreciation for his artistic experience and his vast participations in various exhibitions. Al Rais was also lauded for the great contribution he has made to contemporary art in his 40-year rich experience, also his numerous successes, and the large number of awards and accolades he has garnered. They listened to a detailed presentation by Al Rais on his artworks, which will be displayed at Sharjah Art Museum from 3 October to 30 November 2012.
Speaking on the occasion, Manal Ataya, SMD Director General, said: “The ‘Lasting Impressions’ exhibition is one of the most prominent events on SMD’s annual calendar. SMD is always keen to celebrate and honour pioneering artists who have, through their works, contributed to develop the art movement in the Arab region and provide exposure of their works to local audiences, especially with the view to stimulate creativity and national pride amongst the younger generation.”
She added: “As we honour pioneering artist Abdulqader Al Rais, we are extremely proud to host one of the UAE’s most celebrated artists, who draws his inspiration from the region’s landscape including its heritage, society, environment, and architecture.
And we profoundly thank His Highness Dr. Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, for his continuous support and follow up of cultural, art and heritage activities.
Al Rais’ works are multi-layered and complex, often featuring traditional doors and windows and invites viewers to explore the varied meanings and messages he has imbedded in his visually arresting pieces. There is no doubt that this exhibition will be a major success that will add uniquely to the UAE art scene.”
Abdulqader Al Rais was born in 1951 in Dubai. He has exhibited his work around the world since 1965 and has taken part in numerous exhibitions in Kuwait, Geneva, Madrid, Vienna, London, Sydney, Tripoli, Sharjah, Seoul, Bologna, Paris, Cecilia, Dubai, Riyadh, Rome, China, Beirut, Venezuela, Armenia, and Abu Dhabi and has featured as a solo exhibitor on many great occasions. The 2012 ‘Lasting Impressions’ exhibition will bring the number of his solo exhibitions to 36.
He has won numerous prizes, including the First Prize at the 1st Youth Exhibition-Dubai in 1975, the First Prize at the 3rd Spring Exhibition-Abu Dhabi n 1988, the Second Prize at 4th Spring Exhibition-Abu Dhabi in 1989, the First Prize at 6th Emirates Exhibition-Abu Dhabi 1990, the First Prize at 1st Emirates Exhibition-Al Ain in 1991, in 1990, 1992, 1993 the Golden Dana Award-Kuwait, in 1993 the Jury’s Award at the Sharjah Biennial-UAE, in 1992, 1994 & 1996 the First Prize for Sultan Al Owais Award for Scientific Studies and Creativity-UAE, in 1995 the Jury’s Award Latakia Biennial-Syria, the First Prize Exhibition of “Emirates in the Eyes of its People” in 1999, in 1999 the Golden Soafah (Palm Leaf) at the GCC Exhibition, and many others.
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