Vantage Point Sharjah to welcome applications from all nationalities

In 2018, the annual photography exhibit extended its submission criteria to include anyone from the GCC, but it has gone a step further for 2019

Dubai photographer Kamran Farooqui's submission 'The Apology of Socrates' was taken at a performance of the play at the American University of Sharjah. The photo was on display in last year's exhibitiShow more

For the first time, Sharjah Art Foundation's annual photography exhibit will be open to participants of any nationality.

Since 2013, the foundation has been promoting the work of photographers in the GCC through an annual exhibition called Vantage Point Sharjah. Each year, photographers of all skill levels are invited to submit images based on a theme.

However, the exhibit was originally only open to people in the UAE. For its sixth year in 2018, it extended its submission criteria to include anyone from a GCC country, and the organisation has gone a step further for 2019.

As part of the application, professional and amateur photographers alike are asked to submit six digital photographs, alongside a short description of the work and a biography. The application deadline is June 19 at 11pm. A theme for this year has not yet been announced.

Selected photos will then be presented in an exhibition at Sharjah Art Foundation’s Galleries 1 and 2 in Al Mureijah Square.

In an interview with The National last year, Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, president and director of Sharjah Art Foundation, spoke of the importance of the arts in shaping society. 

“We have long recognised the role art can play in the life of a community," she said.

“There was a visible growing enthusiasm for photography as an artistic medium, and the exhibition offered viewers an opportunity to enjoy the work of local photographers.”

The exhibit has welcomed a range of submissions, from professional to amateur photographers, over the years, she said.

“Interest in photography in the UAE continues to grow every year. Increasing numbers of UAE residents are taking up photography, educational institutions are offering a wider selection of courses, and more arts organisations are exhibiting photographic works.

“We at Sharjah Art Foundation are contributing to this growth, not only through Vantage Point Sharjah, with its diverse artists and audiences, but also with our own educational offerings and other exhibitions throughout the year.”

More information on the application process can be found on the Sharjah Art Foundation's website.