Sharjah has been selected as the Guest of Honour at the Thessaloniki International Book Fair 2024, scheduled to take place from May 16 to 19. This opportunity will allow the emirate to highlight its heritage, values, and arts through a series of workshops, book signings, panel discussions, and literary performances. Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, chairperson of Sharjah Book Authority, emphasized the importance of showcasing Emirati and Arab identity on a global platform, fostering cross-cultural communication beyond borders.
Being recognized as the Guest of Honour at such a prestigious cultural event also acknowledges Sharjah’s vital role as one of the key World Book Capitals. The event will feature an exhibition titled ‘Philosophies: Visual Simulation’, where Emirati and Greek painters will collaborate to translate the words of renowned philosophers into expressive paintings. This project aims to bring together diverse perspectives and create meaningful dialogues between different artistic traditions.
Panel discussions and live performances are also scheduled during the Thessaloniki International Book Fair. Topics such as ‘Emerging Literature and Future Challenges’, ‘Cultural Connections between Arabs and Greece’, and ‘Challenges of the Short Story in the Time of the Novel’ will be explored. Additionally, there will be sessions on the impact of Greek philosophy on literature, a poetic meeting of Emirati and Arab poets, and creative and musical performances to engage visitors and promote cultural exchange.
The event provides a valuable platform for collaboration between Emirati cultural entities and industry experts with their Greek counterparts, facilitating important communication channels within the publishing industry. It offers an opportunity to forge meaningful partnerships and strengthen cultural ties between the two nations. The celebration of Emirati and Arab identity at the Thessaloniki International Book Fair reaffirms Sharjah’s commitment to promoting literary and artistic excellence on an international stage.
As part of the exhibition ‘Philosophies: Visual Simulation’, talented artists like Nasser Nasrallah, Rashid Al Mulla, Alia Al Hammadi, Daniela Stemtiadi, Vassilios Grivas, and Antonios Nikolopolis will bring philosophical words and expressions to life through their expressive paintings. This artistic project celebrates the shared intellectual heritage of Greek and Arab philosophers, highlighting the richness and diversity of their cultural contributions.
In addition to the intellectual and artistic programs, attendees can also enjoy henna sessions, taste Emirati traditional cuisine, witness book signing ceremonies, explore Arabic calligraphy, and discover an exhibition of art collections. The Thessaloniki International Book Fair 2024 promises to be a vibrant and engaging cultural celebration that highlights the importance of literature, philosophy, and artistic expression in fostering dialogue and understanding between different cultures. Sharjah’s presence as the Guest of Honour will undoubtedly enrich the event and showcase the emirate’s vibrant literary and artistic scene to an international audience.
