Sharjah Art Foundation unveils comprehensive autumn learning programme across six art centres
The Foundation's autumn 2026 initiative offers diverse creative opportunities spanning drawing, ceramics, textiles and photography, with community-focused workshops rooted in local histories and traditions.
Sharjah Art Foundation has announced an expansive autumn 2026 learning programme, running from September through November across its six distinctive art centres located in Al Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Al Madam, Khorfakkan, Kalba and Dibba Al Hisn.
The comprehensive initiative provides participants of all ages and abilities with the opportunity to cultivate their artistic practice through a carefully curated selection of workshops and courses. These encompass drawing, painting, ceramics, textiles, photography, sound art, storytelling and numerous other creative disciplines, each conducted by accomplished specialised artists and experienced practitioners.
Several offerings draw creative inspiration from the Foundation’s current exhibitions and cultural events, whilst others respond directly to the distinctive environments, rich histories and vibrant communities that surround each centre. This thoughtful approach ensures that learning experiences remain deeply rooted in local context and cultural significance.
Workshops aligned with “Laila Majid and Inaam Zafar: Body Quotidian” enable younger participants to explore visual narratives with greater confidence and depth. Concurrently, sessions connected to “Vantage Point 13” introduce participants to the multifaceted disciplines of photography and image-making, examining diverse interpretive approaches to the visual world.
Community engagement forms a cornerstone of the programme. “Seed Season” in Al Dhaid convenes home growers and gardening enthusiasts to exchange valuable knowledge regarding germination and plant care. Meanwhile, “Stories and Tools from the Sea” in Al Hamriyah invites children to engage directly with local community members, learning about traditional fishing practices before creating original artworks inspired by traditional maritime equipment.
Additional community-centred initiatives include “Textiles from Al Madam,” which explores local textile and craft traditions, and “Coastal Archives” in Dibba Al Hisn, where participants document stories, customs and generational practices through drawing and written documentation.
The programme features structured longer courses in ceramics, textiles, screenprinting, drawing and mixed media, providing deeper engagement with artistic techniques. In Al Dhaid, a two-session pottery course introduces participants to wheel-throwing methodology, encompassing clay preparation, centring techniques, form development and preparation for firing and glazing.
Sessions cater to diverse age groups, from children and families through teenagers to adults, with most activities conducted bilingually in Arabic and English. Notably, most activities are offered at no cost, with all necessary materials provided. Participants requiring additional accessibility support may request such assistance during registration.
Source: WAM