A Bahrain-loving artist has collected sand from the kingdom’s top cultural sites to put together a one-of-its-kind map of the kingdom, which he hopes to present to the Royal family.
Exploring the connection between humanity and sand, Moroccan artist Fattah Bellali has created ‘Torab of Bahrain’ (Arabic: soil of Bahrain), a two-metre-tall map-inspired art piece.
“I embarked on a journey across Bahrain, visiting the most significant historical sites in each governorate,” the 53-year-old artist told the GDN. “At each location, I meticulously collected sand samples, carefully labelling them.
“I ensured the authenticity of the sand by digging to access the original layers and thoroughly researching the history of each area to avoid collecting reclaimed or transferred sand.”
Mr Bellali visited historical and culturally influential landmarks including mosques, forts, Unesco World Heritage sites like Qal’at Al Bahrain and the Dilmun Burial Mounds, as well as natural wonders like Mount Dukhan, Tree of Life and Hawar Island.
Access to certain sites was restricted due to security measures, presenting a unique set of challenges, and Mr Bellali and his wife Alma Mosawi had to get permission in order to collect sand from there.
“Collecting sand from various locations across Bahrain proved to be a challenging endeavour,” he added.
“Identifying genuine, native sand required careful experimentation and research, as many areas in the country contain imported sand due to land reclamation projects.
“The creation of the art piece involved several distinct stages, culminating in a final finishing phase.”
In total, Mr Bellali took approximately three months to complete the project, and he dreams of presenting it to His Majesty King Hamad.
Mr Bellali has previously created a similar piece for his homeland, Morocco, as ‘an expression of profound love and gratitude for every grain of its sand’.
“I sought to demonstrate the inherent beauty that arises from diversity, showcasing the power of synergy and unity within these differences,” he added.
“The process of preparing the sand varies depending on its type. Some sands, such as desert sand, are fine and silky, while others are coarse and rocky.
“Regardless of the type, each sand undergoes a series of processes: crushing, purification, and mixing with specific products.
“This mixture is then washed until it forms a smooth, muddy paste, which is subsequently poured into prepared moulds to create a strong, solid piece.”
‘Torab of Bahrain’ explores the connection between humanity and sand, reflecting the ancient belief, echoed in many religions, that ‘we are born from dust and ultimately return to it.’
“The piece serves as a metaphor for our reliance on sand for survival: we use it to build our homes, find sustenance and navigate our world,” he explained.
“Sand symbolises our identity, our connection to the land, and the final resting place for our loved ones. Yet, even as we acknowledge this truth, the artwork suggests that we never truly let go of those we have lost.”
Mr Bellali has previously participated in several exhibitions internationally, including the USA, Europe and Middle East. The GDN’s sister publication GulfWeekly has previously reported on Mr Bellali’s last exhibition in the kingdom ‘Lights from Morocco to Bahrain’, in which he blended ancient languages with scientific research and creativity to create a collection of more than 30 pieces.
Mr Bellali is yet to exhibit ‘Torab of Bahrain’ and he hopes to one day present the unique creation to His Majesty as a token of his love for the kingdom.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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