Expanding Arab Art Collection: Collector Seeks New Spaces Through Social Media
One of the world’s largest private collections of Modern and contemporary Arab art, housed by the Barjeel Art Foundation (BAF) in Sharjah, is seeking new temporary exhibition spaces in the UAE. Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi, the founder of BAF, has put out a call online for cultural institutions or public buildings interested in showcasing artworks from the collection on a medium to long-term basis. The collection, which includes works by Arab Modernists and female Arab artists, now boasts 1,800 pieces and is actively expanding. With a focus on accessibility, Al Qassemi is eager for the artworks to be seen by the public rather than stored away. Currently, works not on loan are housed in storage warehouses in Sharjah, with plans for additional storage units to meet high standards for preservation. The foundation is known for lending works to temporary exhibitions and institutions globally, with a history of successful long-term loans and partnerships. Al Qassemi hopes to have at least 400 works from the collection on display at any one time, with plans for a mini gallery pavilion in his Sharjah garden. This initiative aims to broaden the visibility and appreciation of Arab art history, while providing enriching cultural experiences for audiences in the UAE.
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Elara Voss, graduated from the Royal College of Art in London with a Master’s in Fine Art. She specializes in contemporary sculpture and installation art, exploring themes of nature and human interaction. Elara’s works have been featured in several group exhibitions across Europe, and she is currently working on her first solo show.