ARTISTIC DIVERSITY

Showcasing the island’s creative talent, the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition will be open until July 10.

Art, in its many forms, has been intricately woven into Bahrain’s cultural fabric for ages. From the unique Al Naqda embroidery or silver or gold thread-work to pottery and more, the Kingdom has nurtured creativity for generations.

The 49th edition of the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition is being hosted under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, it was inaugurated by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa at the Bahrain National Museum. The display is open to art enthusiasts or anyone seeking a cultural experience, daily except Tuesdays, from 8am to 8pm. You will find more than 100 works across various media by 55 local and resident artists, highlighting the diversity of the Bahraini cultural art scene.

As in past years, three winners were chosen. Mayasa Alsowaidi came in first place winning the coveted Al Dana Award; second place was awarded to Nada Almuqahwi, and Salman Alnajem came third. This year, a fourth award has been introduced, the Audience Award. The artist with the highest number of votes will receive it and it will be announced at the end of the exhibition. You can vote for your favourite artwork through the special platform at the exhibition. There’s also a section honouring the memory of the late Bahraini artist Khalil Al Hashimi, who designed the Al Dana award, which showcases his works.

Over the years, the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition has attracted a wide range of artists from across the Kingdom. One of the largest and most prominent art exhibitions on the island, it brings together pioneers in the fine arts and young up-andcoming talent. ✤

GO: FOLLOW @CULTUREBAH ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.