One of Bahrain’s longest-standing cultural events, the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition, continues to showcase new creative talent, calling all artists to apply for its next edition.

Returning for its 52nd edition in January 2026, the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition (BAFAE) will be held under the patronage of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), the long-running exhibition has become a central platform for local artists, offering the chance to showcase their work at the Bahrain National Museum.

Applications are now open online through the BACA website until November 15. Artists must be Bahraini nationals or residents aged 18 and above. Submissions can include between one and four original artworks created within the past year, with strict guidelines on size and weight. A maximum of three artists may collaborate on a single installation, with each work requiring a full proposal, including a 3D model or visual representation.

Initial selection from digital submissions will be announced on November 20, followed by final artwork delivery by December 10. Selected works will then be prepared for display ahead of the January opening. Artworks are judged on visual impact, thematic coherence, composition and design, innovation and creativity, as well as alignment with the exhibition’s curatorial vision. Each application must also include a statement of up to 500 words, outlining the concept and relevance of the work.✤

GO: VISIT WWW.CULTURE.GOV.BH FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION.