A NEW initiative to promote traditional crafts as part of Bahrain’s culture and heritage was launched yesterday.
As part of its 49th National Day celebrations, the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca) launched ‘Made in Bahrain’ at Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre.
The event was attended by Baca president Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, director general of culture and arts Shaikha Hala bint Mohammed Al Khalifa and national heritage director Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa.
Through the innovative approach, Baca hopes to revisit the visual and functional identity of Bahraini handmade products as they are a cultural expression withstanding the test of time and one that reflects national identity.
“We are pleased to launch ‘Made in Bahrain’ that reflects our vision to activate programmes and projects in support of handicrafts; these crafts are a part of our identity and our ancient intangible cultural heritage,” said Shaikha Mai.
“The initiative will constitute a milestone for interest in Bahraini creative industries and will take it to wider global horizons.”
The centre was previously under the purview of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) but is now part of Baca.
“It’s an honour to celebrate National Day here in Jasra together with the craftsmen, together with the people who have carried the heritage of Bahrain – they have done an incredible job,” said Shaikha Hala.
“We are keen to create new openings and a link between each craft and bring new ideas together and pull in new designers.
“The line of products that have been launched through this initiative is new and exciting; it’s contemporary, it has a new vibe but still in its essence holds the values of traditional crafts in Bahrain.”
These products are being made by a number of craftsmen at the centre who do metal work, craft palm tree products, rush mats, gypsum engraving, boat making, weaving, pottery and traditional chests.
Gypsum engraver Jaffar Abdulhussain told the GDN that crafts such as these could help promote Bahrain’s culture and heritage to people in other countries.
“This initiative will help encourage craftsmen and spread Bahrain’s culture; through these crafts like the engravings on Bahraini homes and doors that can be presented as artifacts, especially for tourists who want souvenirs from Bahrain when they visit,” he said.
“So, if it is made in Bahrain, Bahrainis will put their culture and history into the craft and that way they can spread it to other countries, and the more support there is for craftsmen the more they will be able to produce,” he said.
ghazi@gdn.com.bh
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