People

Runa Islam’s work explores and challenges the structures, materiality and histories of representation and visuality, often in relation to cinematographic and architectural concerns.

Roslisham Ismail (aka Ise) is a multidisciplinary artist whose works include installations, video art and participatory projects.

Fozia Ismail is the founder of Arawelo Eats, a platform examining politics, identity and colonialism through East African food.

Saodat Ismailova is a filmmaker and artist whose upbringing in post-Soviet Uzbekistan and engagement with the region continue to drive her practice.

Over the past few years, Iman Issa’s work has explored the contemporary relevance of objects, ideas and modes of communication that seemingly belong to another time.

Shahira Issa is an artist living and working in Berlin and Cairo.

Toyo Ito’s architectural designs have earned worldwide acclaim for being flexible as well as innovative.

Christopher J. Lee is Professor of African History, World History and African Literature at The Africa Institute, Sharjah.

Ali Jaafar was the international editor of film and TV industry bible Variety, where he covered extensively the Arab world and Middle East, as well as the British, European and Asian entertainment business.

Alfredo Jaar is an artist, architect and filmmaker whose work examines sociopolitical issues through installation, photography and film.

Emily Jacir is an artist whose work investigates translation, transformation, resistance and movement.

Jaffat El Aqlam, which established its digital existence through zines, open calls, workshops and collaborative dialogue, is an independent platform that celebrates artistic creations by humans from/based in the MENA region.