Folk Poetry Exhibition Celebrates Emirati Heritage in Sharja
In a heartfelt tribute to the cultural fabric of the UAE, the Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) has launched the Folk Poetry Exhibition at Kalba Waterfront. This event, part of the centennial celebrations, highlights the significance of traditional Emirati poetry and the influential poets who have shaped the nation’s identity.
Honoring Nabati Poetry
The exhibition, organized in collaboration with heritage researcher Dr. Rashid Ahmed Al Mazrouei, focuses on Nabati poetry—a vital form of oral literature that reflects the values, traditions, and collective memory of the UAE. Running until October 19, the exhibition showcases the works of 14 renowned late Emirati poets, featuring selected poems and rare audio recordings that delve into their creative processes and personal insights.
Visitors to the exhibition can explore the rich tapestry of poetic movements represented by these figures, illustrating how their work documented social life, wisdom, and identity in both pre-oil and modern UAE. This initiative aims to foster a deeper appreciation of Nabati poetry among younger generations, reinforcing connections to the nation’s cultural roots.
A Commitment to Cultural Preservation
Eman Bushulaibi, Director of SPL, emphasized the exhibition’s role in the library’s centenary program, stating that it is essential for preserving the UAE’s literary and cultural heritage. “Nabati poetry has long served as a mirror of society and a record of cultural continuity,” she noted. “Through this exhibition, we honor poets who captured the rhythm of everyday life and passed on the values that define our nation.”
The exhibition features works from a diverse array of poets, including Ali bin Rahma Al Shamsi, Rashid bin Tannaf Al Nuaimi, and Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, among others. Each poet represents a unique voice within the UAE’s rich poetic tradition, contributing to a broader understanding of the nation’s cultural landscape.
FAQs
What is Nabati poetry?
Nabati poetry is a traditional form of Emirati oral literature that reflects the cultural values, traditions, and collective memory of the UAE. It is characterized by its expressive language and themes that resonate with the everyday experiences of Emirati life.
How long will the Folk Poetry Exhibition be open?
The exhibition will be open to the public until October 19, allowing visitors ample time to explore the works of the featured poets and engage with the rich heritage of Nabati poetry.
Who are some of the poets featured in the exhibition?
The exhibition showcases the works of 14 late Emirati poets, including notable figures such as Ali bin Rahma Al Shamsi, Rashid bin Tannaf Al Nuaimi, and Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, each contributing to the diverse landscape of Emirati poetry.
Conclusion
The Folk Poetry Exhibition at Kalba Waterfront serves as a vital platform for celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of Nabati poetry in the UAE. By honoring the poets who have shaped the nation’s cultural identity, SPL aims to inspire future generations to appreciate and engage with their literary roots. Visitors are encouraged to take part in this unique exploration of Emirati culture before the exhibition concludes on October 19.
The Folk Poetry Exhibition not only showcases the works of individual poets but also places them within the broader context of Emirati history and societal changes. Nabati poetry has historically served as a means of storytelling, often addressing themes such as love, nature, and social issues, thus providing insights into the evolving identity of the UAE. This art form has been passed down through generations, often performed at gatherings and celebrations, reinforcing communal bonds and cultural continuity.
The exhibition also aligns with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to promote cultural heritage as a cornerstone of national identity. By highlighting traditional art forms like Nabati poetry, the initiative seeks to engage a wider audience, including students and young adults, in understanding the importance of their cultural legacy. Educational programs and workshops accompanying the exhibition aim to deepen participants’ knowledge and appreciation of this unique poetic tradition, ensuring that it remains a living part of the UAE’s cultural narrative.
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