Latest news with #AgaKhanMuseum
Sharjah 24
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Al-Burda Exhibition inaugurated at Aga Khan Museum in Canada
Running until February 15, 2026, the exhibition is a product of a cultural collaboration between the UAE Ministry of Culture and the Aga Khan Museum, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Al-Burda Award. It signifies a pivotal moment for the award, featuring over 60 contemporary artworks by past Al-Burda Award winners. Additionally, two pieces from the Al-Badr Award collection are presented, creating a compelling visual dialogue with historical and archaeological artifacts from the Aga Khan Museum's permanent collection. The exhibition delves into the rich evolution of Islamic arts, encompassing Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, and Arabic poetry. The exhibition was curated by three graduates of the Al Burda Grant 2024 Curators: Fatma Al Mahmoud; Sara bin Safwan; and Shaikha Al Zaabi. Their collaborative effort presents a contemporary artistic vision that embodies cultural empowerment and cross-border knowledge exchange, reflecting the award's spirit and future aspirations. A robust cultural programme accompanies the exhibition, featuring specialised workshops, lectures, and seminars focusing on Arabic calligraphy, poetry, and Islamic ornamentation. Interactive performances are also part of the programme, designed to deepen public engagement with contemporary Islamic art and highlight its diversity and adaptability in expressing aesthetic values and cultural identity. Coinciding with the opening, a commemorative book titled "Like the Sun Appearing to the Eyes from Afar" was launched. This publication documents the exhibition and explores the artistic and intellectual dimensions of the Al-Burda Award in the context of its 20th anniversary. It includes a collection of essays by experts in Islamic arts, intellectuals, and art collectors, offering in-depth analysis and reflections on the award's role in empowering contemporary Islamic art and enhancing its global cultural presence. This book serves as a vital cultural and artistic reference, chronicling the development of calligraphy, ornamentation, and literary arts, and underscoring the UAE's commitment to supporting Islamic arts, fostering cultural exchange, and deepening appreciation for this ancient artistic tradition. In his opening remarks, Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi emphasised the event as a significant milestone in the Al-Burda Award's journey. He stated: 'This exhibition represents a strategic step towards expanding cultural cooperation between the UAE and Canada. It reflects our firm commitment to presenting Islamic arts within contemporary frameworks that express shared human values and promote intercultural dialogue. In its 20th year, the Al-Burda Award continues to serve as a global Emirati platform, reintroducing Islamic arts to the world in a language attuned to the spirit of our times.' He added: 'We are proud that this edition of the exhibition is the result of a pioneering partnership with the Aga Khan Museum, which underscores the depth of cultural openness and the role of art in building bridges of civilizational dialogue. We look forward to continuing our work with international partners to empower creatives and contribute to shaping a more diverse and influential global cultural scene.' Established in 2004, the Al-Burda Award has honoured over 390 talent worldwide, including poets, visual artists, and calligraphers specialising in Islamic arts. The award has evolved into a global Emirati platform that celebrates this ancient art form and the rich beauty of the Arabic language. It further strengthens the UAE's role in fostering creativity, preserving the artistic heritage of Islamic civilisation, and promoting outstanding works of art to international audiences.
Canada News.Net
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Canada News.Net
Al-Burda Exhibition inaugurated at Aga Khan Museum in Canada
TORONTO, 27th June, 2025 (WAM) -- Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, has officially opened the 'As the Sun Appears from Beyond' exhibition at the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, Canada. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, the Foreign Minister's Envoy to Canada and Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, also attended the inauguration. This marks the exhibition's debut in Canada. Running until February 15, 2026, the exhibition is a product of a cultural collaboration between the UAE Ministry of Culture and the Aga Khan Museum, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Al-Burda Award. It signifies a pivotal moment for the award, featuring over 60 contemporary artworks by past Al-Burda Award winners. Additionally, two pieces from the Al-Badr Award collection are presented, creating a compelling visual dialogue with historical and archaeological artifacts from the Aga Khan Museum's permanent collection. The exhibition delves into the rich evolution of Islamic arts, encompassing Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, and Arabic poetry. The exhibition was curated by three graduates of the Al Burda Grant 2024 Curators: Fatma Al Mahmoud; Sara bin Safwan; and Shaikha Al Zaabi. Their collaborative effort presents a contemporary artistic vision that embodies cultural empowerment and cross-border knowledge exchange, reflecting the award's spirit and future aspirations. A robust cultural programme accompanies the exhibition, featuring specialised workshops, lectures, and seminars focusing on Arabic calligraphy, poetry, and Islamic ornamentation. Interactive performances are also part of the programme, designed to deepen public engagement with contemporary Islamic art and highlight its diversity and adaptability in expressing aesthetic values and cultural identity. Coinciding with the opening, a commemorative book titled "Like the Sun Appearing to the Eyes from Afar" was launched. This publication documents the exhibition and explores the artistic and intellectual dimensions of the Al-Burda Award in the context of its 20th anniversary. It includes a collection of essays by experts in Islamic arts, intellectuals, and art collectors, offering in-depth analysis and reflections on the award's role in empowering contemporary Islamic art and enhancing its global cultural presence. This book serves as a vital cultural and artistic reference, chronicling the development of calligraphy, ornamentation, and literary arts, and underscoring the UAE's commitment to supporting Islamic arts, fostering cultural exchange, and deepening appreciation for this ancient artistic tradition. In his opening remarks, Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi emphasised the event as a significant milestone in the Al-Burda Award's journey. He stated: "This exhibition represents a strategic step towards expanding cultural cooperation between the UAE and Canada. It reflects our firm commitment to presenting Islamic arts within contemporary frameworks that express shared human values and promote intercultural dialogue. In its 20th year, the Al-Burda Award continues to serve as a global Emirati platform, reintroducing Islamic arts to the world in a language attuned to the spirit of our times." He added: "We are proud that this edition of the exhibition is the result of a pioneering partnership with the Aga Khan Museum, which underscores the depth of cultural openness and the role of art in building bridges of civilizational dialogue. We look forward to continuing our work with international partners to empower creatives and contribute to shaping a more diverse and influential global cultural scene." Established in 2004, the Al-Burda Award has honoured over 390 talent worldwide, including poets, visual artists, and calligraphers specialising in Islamic arts. The award has evolved into a global Emirati platform that celebrates this ancient art form and the rich beauty of the Arabic language. It further strengthens the UAE's role in fostering creativity, preserving the artistic heritage of Islamic civilisation, and promoting outstanding works of art to international audiences.
Canada Standard
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Canada Standard
Al-Burda Exhibition inaugurated at Aga Khan Museum in Canada
TORONTO, 27th June, 2025 (WAM) -- Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, has officially opened the 'As the Sun Appears from Beyond' exhibition at the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, Canada. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, the Foreign Minister's Envoy to Canada and Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, also attended the inauguration. This marks the exhibition's debut in Canada. Running until February 15, 2026, the exhibition is a product of a cultural collaboration between the UAE Ministry of Culture and the Aga Khan Museum, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Al-Burda Award. It signifies a pivotal moment for the award, featuring over 60 contemporary artworks by past Al-Burda Award winners. Additionally, two pieces from the Al-Badr Award collection are presented, creating a compelling visual dialogue with historical and archaeological artifacts from the Aga Khan Museum's permanent collection. The exhibition delves into the rich evolution of Islamic arts, encompassing Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, and Arabic poetry. The exhibition was curated by three graduates of the Al Burda Grant 2024 Curators: Fatma Al Mahmoud; Sara bin Safwan; and Shaikha Al Zaabi. Their collaborative effort presents a contemporary artistic vision that embodies cultural empowerment and cross-border knowledge exchange, reflecting the award's spirit and future aspirations. A robust cultural programme accompanies the exhibition, featuring specialised workshops, lectures, and seminars focusing on Arabic calligraphy, poetry, and Islamic ornamentation. Interactive performances are also part of the programme, designed to deepen public engagement with contemporary Islamic art and highlight its diversity and adaptability in expressing aesthetic values and cultural identity. Coinciding with the opening, a commemorative book titled "Like the Sun Appearing to the Eyes from Afar" was launched. This publication documents the exhibition and explores the artistic and intellectual dimensions of the Al-Burda Award in the context of its 20th anniversary. It includes a collection of essays by experts in Islamic arts, intellectuals, and art collectors, offering in-depth analysis and reflections on the award's role in empowering contemporary Islamic art and enhancing its global cultural presence. This book serves as a vital cultural and artistic reference, chronicling the development of calligraphy, ornamentation, and literary arts, and underscoring the UAE's commitment to supporting Islamic arts, fostering cultural exchange, and deepening appreciation for this ancient artistic tradition. In his opening remarks, Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi emphasised the event as a significant milestone in the Al-Burda Award's journey. He stated: "This exhibition represents a strategic step towards expanding cultural cooperation between the UAE and Canada. It reflects our firm commitment to presenting Islamic arts within contemporary frameworks that express shared human values and promote intercultural dialogue. In its 20th year, the Al-Burda Award continues to serve as a global Emirati platform, reintroducing Islamic arts to the world in a language attuned to the spirit of our times." He added: "We are proud that this edition of the exhibition is the result of a pioneering partnership with the Aga Khan Museum, which underscores the depth of cultural openness and the role of art in building bridges of civilizational dialogue. We look forward to continuing our work with international partners to empower creatives and contribute to shaping a more diverse and influential global cultural scene." Established in 2004, the Al-Burda Award has honoured over 390 talent worldwide, including poets, visual artists, and calligraphers specialising in Islamic arts. The award has evolved into a global Emirati platform that celebrates this ancient art form and the rich beauty of the Arabic language. It further strengthens the UAE's role in fostering creativity, preserving the artistic heritage of Islamic civilisation, and promoting outstanding works of art to international audiences.
Mid East Info
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Al Burda Exhibition Opens at the Aga Khan Museum in Canada - Middle East Business News and Information
Toronto, Canada – June 2025: H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, in the presence of H.E. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Foreign Minister's Envoy to Canada and Chairman of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, inaugurated the ' As the Sun Appears from Beyond' exhibition at the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto. The exhibition commemorates the 20th anniversary of Al Burda Award and highlights the cultural partnership between the UAE Ministry of Culture and the Museum. Open to the public until 15 February 2026, the exhibition features over 60 contemporary works by Al Burda Award recipients, along with two special works from Al Badr Award, presented in visual dialogue with rare historical and archaeological artifacts from the Aga Khan Museum's collection. It explores the evolution of Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, abstract painting, and the art of the word, highlighting an artistic journey that blends deep-rooted tradition with contemporary expression. Curated by Fatima Al Mahmoud, Sarah bin Safwan, and Sheikha Al Zaabi – three graduates of Al Burda Grant program – the exhibition embodies an artistic vision that reflects the spirit of the award and its future aspirations. It also serves as a testament to cultural exchange and creative empowerment across borders. Alongside the exhibition, a rich cultural program is taking place, offering a variety of talks, lectures, and hands-on workshops focused on Arabic calligraphy, Islamic ornamentation, and poetry. The program also features dynamic artistic performances and multidisciplinary activities that invite visitors to engage with Islamic art in an immersive and participatory way—extending the experience beyond the gallery space and highlighting the depth and vitality of contemporary expression. In conjunction with the exhibition, a commemorative book was produced to celebrate the 20-year legacy of Al Burda Award. Featuring contributions from renowned experts in Islamic art, the volume explores the Award's cultural significance and its role in advancing contemporary interpretations of Islamic aesthetics. Positioned as both a scholarly and creative resource, the publication enhances the exhibition's impact and reinforces the UAE's mission to preserve, promote, and recontextualize Islamic artistic traditions for global audiences. In his opening remarks, H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi emphasised the significance of this occasion as a key milestone in journey of Al Burda Award. H.E. stated: 'This exhibition represents a strategic effort to deepen cultural collaboration between the UAE and Canada and reflects our commitment to presenting Islamic arts through a contemporary lens that resonates with shared human values and fosters intercultural dialogue. Now in its 20th year, Al Burda Award continues to serve as a global Emirati platform for redefining the presence of Islamic art on the world stage.' His Excellency added: 'We are proud to partner with the Aga Khan Museum for this landmark exhibition. It reflects our dedication to cultural openness and our belief in the power of art to build bridges between civilisations. We look forward to cultivating more partnerships with international institutions that empower creatives and contribute to a more inclusive global cultural landscape.' Established in 2004, Al Burda Award has recognised more than 390 talented individuals specialising in Islamic arts, including poets, calligraphers, and visual artists from around the world. It remains a leading UAE platform that celebrates the richness of Islamic art and the beauty of Arabic language. The award also highlights the UAE's role in promoting creativity and intercultural dialogue globally, preserving the artistic heritage of Islamic civilisation, and presenting outstanding works to a global audience.
Cision Canada
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cision Canada
Rhythms of Canada Festival Returns for Two Days of Art, Music, Dance, and Celebration
One of Toronto's favourite summer festivals will bring global flavours and rhythms to the heart of the city in a two-day festival for all ages TORONTO, June 23, 2025 /CNW/ - On June 30 and July 1, 2025, the Aga Khan Museum and Aga Khan Park will come alive with Rhythms of Canada, a vibrant, site-wide summer festival. This year's programming focuses on celebrating the diverse artists, organizations, and cultural voices that shape Canada's creative landscape, with co-curated performances that reflect the city's rich pluralism and honour both traditional and contemporary expressions. Featuring an exciting lineup of live music, interactive family activities, delicious food, and engaging cultural experiences, the festival has quickly become one of Toronto's most popular. From Pakistan to Cuba, Ghana to Toronto, this year's free headlining performances will bring global rhythms to the Main Stage. The diverse lineup includes: Natasha Noorani – A genre-bending musician and music historian from Lahore, Pakistan, co-presented with Tawoos Initiative. Narcy – An Iraqi-Canadian artist, educator, and cultural producer based in Montréal. Persian Alchemy – A Toronto-based ensemble rooted in the Persian maqam tradition, co-presented with Small World Music. Jorge Betancourt and Café Cubano – One of Canada's first all-Cuban salsa bands, co-presented with Lula Music & Arts. KAYAM – A Canadian artist blending pop, Afrobeats, and R&B, with influences from East Africa, India, and the UK. Eagleheart Singers – A renowned Toronto-based drum group from the Moose Cree and Wikwemikong First Nations, sharing over 25 years of powerful performances rooted in song, ceremony, and community. Solara – A band formed by eight Humber College students as the culmination of the 2024 Intercultural and Creative Music Fellowship hosted in partnership with the Museum. Gye Nyame Band - A Ghanaian-Canadian highlife group combining traditional Ghanaian rhythms with contemporary Canadian influences, co-presented with Batuki Music Society. In addition to the headlining performances, the TD Pop-Up Performances Stage will showcase local talents, featuring the Toronto Klezmer Society, Achanté, Luis Anselmi, and a unique Tapestry Jam. On July 1, the Museum will host special Canada Day events, including: A live performance by The Band of The Royal Regiment of Canada at 12:30 pm. A Citizenship Ceremony hosted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada to welcome new Canadians. " Rhythms of Canada has become a cherished annual tradition at the Aga Khan Museum. It is one that truly embodies our pluralistic mandate," says Dr. Sascha Priewe, Director of Collections and Public Programs. "Year after year, this vibrant festival brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to dance, sing, and celebrate. It's a powerful reminder of the ability of the arts to bring communities together and bridge cultures, which lies at the very heart of what we do as a museum." Filled with immersive and engaging experiences for visitors of all ages, Rhythms of Canada will also include: Creative Workshops – Offered daily, where visitors can try water marbling, jewellery making, or clay tile design. (Paid registration is required.) Interactive Performances – Where visitors can learn new moves and rhythms in Bollywood dance, flamenco, African drumming, and more. Local Community Partners – Hands-on activations hosted by community partners, including the Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto Zoo, Ontario Science Centre, and the Bata Shoe Museum, where families can interact with their favourite heritage organizations. Free Museum Admission – Complimentary access to the Museum Collections Gallery, with reduced $10 admission to the current major exhibition, As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award. Delicious Food – A world of flavour from local food trucks and the Museum's on-site restaurant, Diwan. Family Activities – Fun for all ages, including arts and crafts, face painting, and outdoor games. To learn more about Rhythms of Canada programming, visit About the Aga Khan Museum The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, Canada, has been established and developed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), which is an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Through permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational activities and performing arts, the Museum's mission is to spark wonder, curiosity, and understanding of Muslim cultures and their connection with other cultures through the arts. Designed by architect Fumihiko Maki, the Museum shares a 6.8-hectare site with Toronto's Ismaili Centre, which was designed by architect Charles Correa. The surrounding landscaped park was designed by landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic.
