In a city known for its striking architecture and impressive skyline. Artist Shamin Sharum invites us to look at something much smaller and its beauty often goes unnoticed. His latest exhibition, Provisional Sanctuaries, explores the modest prayer spaces, Knows as Musollas, found in warehouses, workplaces and shopfronts across the UAE. Presented by Tashkeel in Dubai, the exhibition opened on 23 October and runs until 27 November 2026. Through paintings, drawings and small architectural models, Sharum brings attention to these everyday spaces and the important role they play in people’s lives.

The Malaysian artist project began with a personal experience. When he first moved to Dubai, discovering a small musolla gave him an unexpected feeling of comfort and familiarity in an unfamiliar city. The moments inspired him to explore how certain spaces can offer a sense of belonging for people. Rather than showing these prayer rooms exactly as they appear. Sharum focuses on small details that make each of them unique such as prayer mats, handwritten signs, water bottles and simple architectural features. These everyday objects tell stories about the people who use the spaces and even when they are no longer there.

Through his work, Sharum spotlights elements in these places and the memories people leave behind in them. His exhibition invites visitors to look beyond the familiar cityscape and discover the quiet stories of faith, memory and belonging hidden in everyday places. It also reminds us that meaningful experiences can be found in the most unexpected corners of a city, and that even the smallest spaces can bring people together through shared traditions and a sense of familiarity.

Through Provisional Sanctuaries, Sharum reminds us through his work that belonging doesn’t always come from grand buildings or permanent places. Sometimes it can be found in a small, quiet corner. By bringing these overlooked places into focus, he reveals the stories and human connections they hold. The exhibition shows how even the simplest spaces can leave a lasting impression on those who find comfort within them.