Bahraini artist Waleed AlFadhel is set to impart his knowledge on sustainability through a series of workshops on creative upcycling starting today, with the aim of fostering a ‘ripple effect of conscious consumption and creation’ within the community.
The 48-year-old from Muharraq, who has a doctoral degree in designing art pieces and paintings from the Nevada University in the Middle East region, specialises in upcycling, in addition to Islamic pattern designing and the Rorschach painting technique.
The Organised Chaos workshops, which will focus on art, sustainability and creative reuse, are designed to transform everyday discards into new and valuable creations. Some of the themes that will be covered during the sessions are: creating sculptures using paper mâché, repurposing cardboard as decorative art and fabric-textured wall art.
Mr AlFadhel
Additionally, the programme claims to offer mental health and other benefits like improved thinking and enhanced productivity based on the type of hands-on activities that participants will perform in a collaborative setting.
The eight-week programme, staged by Art Concept gallery (@artconceptbh on Instagram), will culminate with a group exhibition at the venue located in Andalus Garden.
“My passion for sustainability is a core principle that guides everything I create,” Mr AlFadhel told the GDN.
“As artists, we have a responsibility to minimise our impact on the planet while still producing beautiful and meaningful work.
A creation designed with reused and naturally dyed fabrics and threads
“As an upcycling artist, my creations begin with a mindful selection of materials. I’m constantly researching and seeking out friendly alternatives; whether that’s used paper, cardboard, wood, fabrics, or any materials, I see that have potential.
“Beyond materials, I also focus on the lifecycle of my creations. I design for durability and longevity, aiming for pieces that will stand the test of time rather than contributing to a culture of disposability. This often means prioritising timeless aesthetics over fleeting trends and using construction methods that allow for repair or even repurposing down the line,” said the retired medical practitioner, who now pursues art full-time.
Repurposed cardboard, paper and acrylic paint brought alive
Elaborating on the idea behind the programme, he said, “My vision for community change through my work goes beyond simply creating beautiful pieces. It is about shifting mind-sets and fostering a more sustainable culture from the ground up.
“My first aim is to inspire through transformation. When people witness a discarded item reborn into a unique, functional and artistic piece, it sparks a powerful realisation; they begin to see potential where they once saw scrap.
Reused metals, beads, cardboard and acrylic paint
“Beyond inspiration, I aim to educate and empower. My sessions offer opportunities to equip individuals with practical skills that reduce scrap, save money and unleash their creativity. By demystifying the upcycling process, I aim to empower more people to try it themselves.
“Finally, my upcycled art can foster dialogue and collaboration. Each piece tells a story, the journey from discard to design. Sharing these narratives can open crucial conversations about consumption habits, waste management and the environmental impact of our daily lives,” he explained, adding that he would love to collaborate with local businesses, schools or community centres.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
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