Luminous Prayers by Peter Wageh

In addition to its function of introducing the natural light to the place, stained glass bestows beauty on the space and the interior environment through its shape and bright colours.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council and ruler of Sharjah, the Cultural Affairs Department at the Sharjah Department of Culture has organised the 20th Edition of the Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival.

Peter Wageh exhibitied 'Luminous Prayers' at the Sharjah Art Museum as part of the Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival 2017/18.

Peter Wageh considers the art of stained glass to be the cohesion between plaster and glass, that adorns the windows of houses and mosques; and as such to be the most beautiful heritage. In addition to its function of introducing the natural light to the place, stained glass bestows beauty on the space and the interior environment through its shape and bright colours.

For 2000 years, Damascus artisans have been renowned for manufacturing Damascene and traditional stained glass, however only today the art is slowly dissappearing as not many artisans remain.

Peter Wageh exhibited five panels made of stained glass, in bright colours, lit from inside. As a theme he uses Arabic calligraphy, plants and animals.

Peter Wageh, Luminous Prayers, SIAF 2017/18 / Photo Â© Islamic Arts Magazine

Peter Wageh, Luminous Prayers, detail, SIAF 2017/18 / Photo Â© Islamic Arts Magazine

Peter Wageh, Luminous Prayers, SIAF 2017/18 / Photo Â© Islamic Arts Magazine

Peter Wageh, Luminous Prayers, detail, SIAF 2017/18 / Photo Â© Islamic Arts Magazine

Peter Wageh, Luminous Prayers, SIAF 2017/18 / Photo Â© Islamic Arts Magazine

The 20th edition of the Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival (SIAF) presented many exhibitions and large scale installations at the Sharjah Art Museum, and at other venues such as Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Majaz Amphitheatre, Awqaf Department, Al Qasba, Maraya Art Centre, and Calligraphy Square.