Prominent landmarks and the iconic architecture of Sharjah’s East Coast, namely Dibba al Hisn, Khorfakkan, Kalba; Al Dhaid; and Al Hamriya are illuminated with a kaleidoscope of creative lights and colors this year, with the return of the much-talked-about Sharjah Light Festival, the emirate’s exciting annual light and sound spectacular. The marvelous light shows continue until February 15, 2020.

The recognisable and beloved edifices lit up in the East Coast this year include Masjid Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi – Dibba Al Hisn; the House of Justice – Khorfakkan; the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport – Khorfakkan; and the University of Sharjah – Kalba. Other landmarks in Sharjah that are part of the festival are Al Hamriya Area Municipality and the Al Wousta TV Building – Al Dhaid.

Crafted by visual artist Bijoy Kaaliyadan, video mapping is activated at Masjid Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi in Dibba Al Hisn in a show aimed to showcase Islamic patterns, oriental designs, and Sharjah’s heritage and culture, with a special touch delineating the architectural details of the building.

The masterpieces continue with the addition of the newly inaugurated Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport in Khorfakkan, which serves as canvas for another 3D video mapping show. Curated by Typru & Rehman, Sharjah’s maritime and trade history and legacy from the days of pearl diving till today, reflecting the emirate’s march towards a brighter future, are showcased.

The astonishing light shows are widespread and can be seen in various locations around the emirate. The façades of both the House of Justice in Khorfakkan and the University of Sharjah in Kalba, both of which feature 3D video mapping shows accompanied by music, also continue to astound and inspire spectators. Crafted by Prunelle Chappert, a French artist, graphic and motion designer, the show at the House of Justice – Khorfakkan, highlights traditional and modern styles as well as Sharjah’s rich culture. The show at the University of Sharjah, which was created by Elmo, an independent multi-disciplinary studio, utilises an upbeat approach, combining fun, energy, light, and music in a distinctive style, expressing the diversity of ideas from which it was inspired.

Ines Sakina, French artistic director, video maker, and 3D artist, has devised a 3D video mapping show for the main façade of Al Hamriya Area Municipality, taking spectators through Sharjah’s different styles and eras. The Al Wousta TV Building – Al Dhaid, illuminated by light designer Benjamin Perroux, reflects the hope that Sharjah represents in the Arab world and the entire globe as a hub for science, knowledge, arts and culture, turning the desert into a beacon that guides people toward future aspirations.

The Sharjah Light Festival continues until February 15, 2020, with daily performances held from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm on weekdays (Saturday to Wednesday) and from 6:00 pm to 12:00 midnight on weekends (Thursday and Friday). For more information, please visit slf.ae