Resurgent Nahda: The Arab Exhibitions in Mandate Jerusalem

Resurgent Nahda: Pan-Arab Exhibitions, Past and Present draws inspiration from the pan-Arab exhibitions held in 1930s Jerusalem, wherein local and regional arts, crafts and industries coalesced towards Arab cultural and economic autonomy during the nahda [renaissance] period—a decisive break from European colonial influence. Based on the research of Palestinian architect and historian Nadi Abusaada, a recipient of Sharjah Art Foundation’s annual publishing grant (2023), this Arabic-English publication comprises essays that reassess the social, cultural and economic ties connecting the Arab world during the colonial era. It also looks back at these exhibitions as catalysts for envisioning a more open and interconnected future for the Arab region. The book features critical reflections by a range of practitioners alongside a curated selection of archival materials: architectural drawings, brochures, postcards, photographs and more, offering new perspectives of a pivotal moment in Arab cultural history.