FLYING SAUCER

Sharjah Art Foundation’s magnificent Flying Saucer is now open

Sharjah continues to make its mark as a cultural destination with news that The Flying Saucer is open to the public after major renovation works by Sharjah Art Foundation.

The renovation features new community spaces that will host exhibitions, workshops, film screenings and events.

Constructed in the mid1970s, the iconic structure, which has been part of Sharjah’s collective cultural memory ever since, is now restored by Sharjah Art Foundation to reflect its original architecture that draws on the space-age influence of 1960s and 1970s Western literature and popular culture.

The site-specific multimedia installation Lindsay Seers and Keith Sargent: Nowhere Less

Now3 [ flying saucer] (on show until 26 December 2020), which responds to the building’s architecture, marks the reopening of the venue. Experience the major installation while exploring the distinct architecture of The Flying Saucer.

The landmark’s new features include new exterior spaces and a lower-level community area, including a café, a library, a sunken courtyard and activity spaces. This month, the venue is hosting a range of learning workshops designed for children aged 6 to 15 and their parents, which focus on photography, image-making, drawing and calligraphy.

Watch screenings of the popular sci-fi/fantasy films which will be projected onto the venue’s designated screening walls while having a bite to eat at the Fen Café overlooking the courtyard and library.

The Flying Saucer’s open access art library is the first of its kind in Sharjah and is open to all. The collection includes Foundation publications, artist books and catalogues as well as reference materials that target curious readers and art enthusiasts. Little ones can also take home a sci-fi inspired souvenir from the venue’s art shop which sells books, educational items and design-led gifts.

Workshops are open to the public and free to attend; however, pre-registration is required. Admission for all is free.

The Flying Saucer, Dasman, Sharjah, Sat to Thur 9am to 9pm, Fri 4pm to 9pm. ticket.sharjahart. org/Home