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Sharjah Foundation

Focal Point 3

Details
Category:
Collaboration
Dates:
Nov 24, 2023 - Nov 26, 2023
Artists:
Vasl Artists’ Association
Location:
Sharjah, UAE
In collaboration with:
Sharjah Art Foundation

About

In 2023, Vasl Artists’ Association proudly participated in FOCAL POINT, Sharjah Art Foundation’s esteemed annual publishing event. Recognized as a leading platform for contemporary art publishing, FOCAL POINT aims to highlight innovative printed materials—books, zines, posters, and editions—connecting artists, publishers, and audiences across Sharjah, the UAE, and the Middle East. Addressing the region’s limited dedicated spaces for experimental and interdisciplinary publishing, the event provides a vital platform for showcasing diverse projects from independent publishers alongside established voices.

Spanning three days, FOCAL POINT blended a traditional fair with dynamic programming, including panel discussions, performances, screenings, and workshops. These activities fostered meaningful conversations around art publishing practices and celebrated the vibrant community of creators shaping this field. The event was held within the historic Bait Al Shamsi, an 1845 heritage building renovated in the 1990s, offering an intimate and culturally rich environment for exchange. Its two floors and courtyard, previously used for artist studios and exhibitions during past Sharjah Biennials, provided an inspiring backdrop for dialogue.

Aligned with Vasl’s ongoing mission to connect thinkers, artists, and audiences, the foundation’s Director, Hoor Al Qasimi, invited Vasl to participate in the curated tables section. Each participant was given a designated table to collaborate with small and independent publishers, sourcing and presenting printed matter from diverse linguistic and regional origins, including English, Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, and more from the MENASA region. Vasl showcased over 300 publications from Pakistan, alongside contributions from artists, institutions, museums, galleries, and private collections. These works, some independently created by Vasl, were displayed in the EDIT section alongside notable entities such as Khoj, Chimurenga, African Art Book Fair, Terremoto, and the Sharjah Art Foundation itself. The event featured book launches, lectures, art installations, workshops, and the Asia Art Archive Symposium, creating a lively platform for exploring contemporary art publishing and fostering international dialogue.

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