SHARJAH ISLAMIC ARTS FESTIVAL (SIAF) 2017/18 (DEC 13, 2017 - JAN 23, 2018) Metalmorphosis by Zeinab Alhashemi

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.

The installation 'Metalmorphosis', created by Zeinab Alhashemi is on view at the Sharjah Art Museum as part of the Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival 2017/18.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem Al Qasimi touring the exhibition at the opening of the Festival with Farah Qasem Mohammed, Islamic Arts Festival Executive; Mohammed I. Al Qaseer, Director of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Abdullah Al Owais, Chairman of Sharjah Department of Culture and Information / Photo © Islamic Arts Magazine

Alhashemi addresses the geometric depth of Islamic Art through transforming the functional state of the Mesh into a decorative state. She uses the same method behind the 16-pointed star, to symbolize the development of geometry in Islamic Art. The installation emphasis is on how geometry is all around us, even in the simplest forms and materials. Using mathematical formulas each shape can be repeated and developed into a pattern.

Alhashemi believes that the inspiration of geometry started from tangible elements in nature and intangible elements like sound and dreams; therefore, the impact of geometry will continue to infinite possibilities in all times, cultures and spaces. The installation 'Metalmorphosis' is made of four reinforced metal mesh rotated to create a pattern. Generally used in construction, mesh in this installation is manufactured from steel wires, welded at each intersection. Alhashemi reinvents the shapes used in Islamic art to new, more contemporary forms that can be seen in different places.

Metalmorphosis by Zeinab Alhashemi / Photo © Islamic Arts Magazine

Metalmorphosis by Zeinab Alhashemi / Photo © Islamic Arts Magazine

Metalmorphosis by Zeinab Alhashemi / Photo © Islamic Arts Magazine

Metalmorphosis by Zeinab Alhashemi / Photo © Islamic Arts Magazine

Metalmorphosis by Zeinab Alhashemi / Photo © Islamic Arts Magazine

Born and based in Dubai, Zeinab Alhashemi is a conceptual artist and designer specializing in site-specific installation, and spatial art. Her process forges a connection between an honoured tradition and a distinguished contemporary pieces relying on technical and creative knowledge collected through experience. Alhashemi executes visionary art through raw and overlooked materials. Her personal journey to understand her identity, the world around her, and the universal symbol that shapes our reality. Her art reflects the connection between nature, sacred geometry, and ancient knowledge to contribute to the region and global consciousness.

Alhashemi supports the importance of public art, and is always keen to engage the public with her work, she believes that as a growing art and culture scene, it is her responsibility as an artist to draw awareness not only on art and design, but how it can inspire the society. By deconstructing and reconstructing her chosen medium she gives viewers a different perspective on the landscape they are situated in.

Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival (SIAF) 2017/18 opened on December 13, 2017 and runs through January 23, 2018. Many exhibitions and large scale installations are on view 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.