(SIH) Delegation Visits Emirati Designer Hisham Al Madhloom and Explores “Diwani Sharjah” Building
A delegation from the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, headed by H.E. Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Institute, visited the residence of Emirati designer Hisham Al Madhloom to explore the Diwani Sharjah building and learn about its architectural and artistic concept, which embodies the aesthetics of Arabic calligraphy within a contemporary architectural framework.
During the visit, the delegation received a detailed presentation on the project's concept, its stages of development, and the artistic and calligraphic works it houses, documenting the history and evolution of Arabic calligraphy through the ages. The project also presents an innovative vision that combines authenticity with contemporary creativity.
“Letter Architecture” in a Unique Experience
Diwani Sharjah is considered one of the architectural projects that offers an unconventional approach to integrating Arabic calligraphy into building design. It reflects a creative architectural experience aimed at highlighting the beauty of Arabic script within a contemporary context, thereby strengthening its presence in the cultural and creative landscape.
The building was designed as a visual embodiment of the close relationship between Arabic calligraphy and architecture. It is regarded as one of the world's pioneering experiences in making Arabic letters a fundamental element of architectural structure and design.
The building showcases diverse examples from both traditional and contemporary schools of Arabic calligraphy, alongside rare artworks and collectibles documenting the history of this distinguished art form. As such, it serves as an integrated cultural and artistic space celebrating Arabic script as one of the most important components of Arab and Islamic civilizational identity.
A Valuable Addition to the Cultural and Creative Scene
H.E. Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam praised Diwani Sharjah as a significant addition to the cultural and creative landscape, emphasizing that the project offers an exceptional experience demonstrating how Arabic calligraphy can transcend its traditional function to become a living element in architectural and artistic expression.
Al Musallam stated: “Diwani represents a unique cultural and creative experience that combines the authenticity of Arab and Islamic heritage with the spirit of contemporary innovation. It presents an inspiring model that highlights the aesthetics of Arabic calligraphy and its ability to occupy modern architectural spaces, thereby reinforcing its status as one of the most prominent symbols of our civilizational identity.”
An Emirati Model with Global Recognition
Dr. Al Musallam added that such distinguished initiatives underscore the importance of investing in cultural projects that reintroduce heritage elements through innovative approaches aligned with contemporary realities. He noted that Diwani Sharjah embodies a creative vision that transforms heritage into a source of renewal and inspiration.
He further stressed that the international recognition received by the project, including three prestigious global awards, reflects its artistic and cultural value and demonstrates the ability of Emirati creators to produce pioneering works that earn worldwide acclaim while enhancing the global presence of Arabic calligraphy and Arab culture.
A Distinguished Journey of Creativity
Hisham Al Madhloom is regarded as one of the UAE’s leading cultural and artistic figures. Over several decades, he has played a major role in supporting the visual arts and cultural movement in the country and has held numerous leadership positions in cultural and artistic institutions. He is widely known for creative projects that merge art, heritage, and innovation.
Diwani Sharjah has attracted significant local and international attention and was recently honored with three prestigious global awards in recognition of its architectural and artistic excellence. These include the Loop Design Awards, where it topped the global voting for Best Contemporary Architectural Design; first place in the American Vision Architizer Award for Best Photography of a Contemporary Building; and the Best Residential Architectural Project Award from the Sharjah Urban Planning and Survey Department for 2024.
The project has also been honored by four countries: Egypt, China, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia. As an individual initiative within the Emirate of Sharjah, Diwani Sharjah contributes to spreading knowledge and appreciation of visual arts, particularly in the fields of architecture and design.
An Art Museum Within an Architectural Space
Inside, Diwani Sharjah houses approximately 200 artistic and calligraphic works created by more than 85 calligraphers and artists from diverse Arab, Islamic, and international schools. The collection includes rare works by renowned pioneers of Arabic calligraphy, as well as historical artifacts such as pieces of the Kaaba’s Kiswah and inscriptions executed on various materials.
The building also features murals and calligraphic artworks by prominent artists, including Nja Mahdaoui, Abdulqader Al Rais, Dia Al-Azzawi, Khaled Al-Saai, and Mohammad Nabati, in addition to contemporary artworks specially designed to harmonize with the architectural spaces of the building.