Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi: Honoring a Champion of Arab Culture

Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi, an Emirati writer, researcher, and cultural advocate, has recently been awarded the prestigious Cultural Excellence Award by the Takreem Foundation. This recognition comes as a testament to Al Qassemi’s relentless efforts in promoting Arab art and culture on the global stage.

Takreem Foundation’s Gala Night

Al Qassemi was celebrated at a gala fundraiser held at the iconic Jumeirah Emirates Towers. The night was not only a celebration of Al Qassemi but also a gathering of various creative and political figures, highlighting the profound impact of culture in the Arab world. Such events by the Takreem Foundation emphasize the importance of recognizing and uplifting global Arab achievements.

The Barjeel Art Foundation: A Milestone in Modern Art

As the founder of the Barjeel Art Foundation, established in 2010, Al Qassemi has played a pivotal role in managing, preserving, and exhibiting an extensive collection of modern and contemporary artworks from the Arab region. This foundation has hosted numerous exhibitions worldwide, significantly enhancing the visibility of Arab artists and their narratives. Al Qassemi’s dedication has made the Barjeel Art Foundation a key player in fostering artistic dialogue and appreciation.

Academic Contributions

Al Qassemi’s engagement extends beyond the art world; he has also imparted knowledge across various prestigious institutions, including Yale University, Columbia University, and the American University of Sharjah. His courses often delve into the rich interplay of politics, art, and contemporary Arab history. His approach encourages students to critically examine how these elements converge, promoting a deeper understanding of the Arab identity.

A Personal Journey

In his acceptance speech, Al Qassemi reflected on the significance of founding the Barjeel Art Foundation, describing it as a journey that has deeply enriched his understanding of Arab culture. He emphasized, “This journey revealed an important truth: our responsibility isn’t just to share our culture and heritage with the world – we must also share it with one another.” This sentiment encapsulates his commitment to both the local and global communities.

Honoring Other Cultural Pioneers

The gala also recognized other influential personalities. Shaikha Mai Al Khalifa was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award for her tireless advocacy for heritage preservation in Bahrain. As a former minister of culture, her leadership has been instrumental in restoring historic sites and promoting cultural initiatives.

Additionally, the late Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz, known for his socio-political contributions in Saudi Arabia, was posthumously honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. His son’s acceptance of the award underscores the continuation of his legacy of reform and philanthropy.

Bridging the Gap: The Al Multaqa Literary Salon

Another highlight of the evening was the special recognition awarded to the Al Multaqa Literary Salon, known for its promotion of intellectual exchange through discussions on literature and art. Founded in 1998, it has contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of the region by hosting literary events and supporting emerging writers.

Commitment to Humanitarian Causes

The Takreem Foundation, since its inception in 2010, has focused on celebrating Arab accomplishments and achievers while simultaneously addressing humanitarian needs. In 2024, they partnered with organizations such as Sesobel and Assameh Birth & Beyond, aiming to raise funds for children’s well-being, covering essential medical expenses and daily needs.

Celebrating a Rich Cultural Heritage

The Takreem award ceremonies have taken place in various iconic cities, including Beirut, Doha, and Dubai, further emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to celebrating Arab talents globally. Each event serves not just as a ceremony but as a vital platform for acknowledging the contributions of Arab creatives, thinkers, and leaders.

By attending events like these, attendees are reminded of the rich cultural tapestry woven by the Arab world—a narrative driven by passionate individuals like Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi, who tirelessly advocate for a broader appreciation of Arab art and culture.