New editorial platform invites regional writers to develop critical voices through close engagement with contemporary art.
26 May 2026
Open Call:
Sharjah Art Foundation has launched The Hook, a new initiative that supports emerging and established art writers across the region through commissioned critical writing focused on contemporary artworks exhibited at Sharjah Art Foundation venues.
Developed as part of #SAFOnline, the programme invites writers to submit pitches in response to a single artwork currently on view, encouraging personal, critical, and experimental approaches to art writing.
Institutional Context:
The Hook was created in response to the limited opportunities available for art writers to regularly write, edit and publish their work. The initiative aims to strengthen writing practices by providing editorial guidance, publishing opportunities and space for writers to deepen their engagement with contemporary art.
Rather than commissioning conventional reviews, the programme encourages contributors to approach artworks through:
- Personal experience
- Cultural references
- Exhibition context
- Associative or experimental forms of writing
Selected texts will be published on #SAFOnline, and contributors will receive an honorarium for their participation.
Sharjah Art Foundation is internationally recognised for supporting contemporary art, exhibitions, commissions, residencies and public programmes across the UAE and internationally.
Eligibility and Criteria:
The open call is aimed at local and regional art writers interested in engaging critically and creatively with contemporary art practices.
Interested writers are asked to submit:
- A short paragraph outlining which artwork they would like to respond to
- An explanation of why they wish to engage with that work
Applications should demonstrate a strong interest in contemporary art, critical thinking and experimental or reflective writing approaches.
Evaluation Process:
Texts are commissioned through an open call for pitches rather than direct assignment, with submissions reviewed by the editorial team at Sharjah Art Foundation.
Selected writers will receive one or more rounds of editorial feedback intended to support the development of their craft, strengthen their critical voice and refine their final text for publication.
Practical Information:
The Hook forms part of #SAFOnline, Sharjah Art Foundation’s digital platform for publishing and engagement. The initiative focuses on artworks currently exhibited at Sharjah Art Foundation venues across the Emirate of Sharjah. Final commissioned texts will be published online. Sharjah Art Foundation exhibitions and programmes are free and open to the public.
Applications and Queries:
Pitches and enquiries should be sent to editor@sharjahart.org
Please include “The Hook” in the subject line.
Further information is available via the Sharjah Art Foundation website.
