Electricity substations, large water tanks, and the walls and fences of government and municipal buildings across Bahrain are set to be transformed into vibrant works of art under a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting energy and water conservation.
The campaign, set to be launched later this year, will invite both professional and amateur artists to turn otherwise overlooked infrastructure into striking visual statements carrying messages about sustainability.
Organisers say the initiative blends creativity with civic responsibility, while also tackling the widespread issue of random posters and advertisements defacing public spaces.
The proposal was put forward by Parliament’s public utilities and environment affairs committee chairman MP Mohammed Al Bulooshi, who stressed that traditional awareness campaigns are no longer enough to capture public attention.
Mr Al Bulooshi
“We need to communicate with people in ways that resonate with their daily lives,” Mr Al Bulooshi told the GDN. “Art has the power to engage communities instantly. When people see meaningful, beautiful visuals in their neighbourhoods, the message stays with them far longer than a leaflet or a billboard.”
He explained that turning everyday structures into artistic landmarks would serve as constant reminders of the importance of conserving electricity and water, while also improving the overall look of communities.
Artists will be encouraged to use a wide range of styles and mediums, including graffiti, murals, calligraphy and mosaics, all centred around themes of sustainability and responsible consumption.
Organisers also believe the initiative will discourage illegal advertising, as previously blank and highly-visible surfaces become protected by community-created artwork.
The campaign will feature competitions and awards to encourage participation from across Bahrain, with organisers stressing that it is open to both citizens and expatriates.
“It’s not just about winning prizes,” Mr Al Bulooshi added. “It’s about building awareness and ensuring that future generations inherit a more sustainable Bahrain.”
Artist Amal Al Bulooshi drawing on walls
A name and official branding for the campaign are currently being finalised, with artists and community groups already being encouraged to start developing ideas ahead of the launch.
The initiative is being co-ordinated by Parliament and Bahrain’s three municipal councils and the Capital Trustees Board, in parternship with the Electricity and Water Affairs Ministry. Additional support has also been sought from the Ministries of Works, and Housing and Urban Planning to allocate a budget for materials, logistics and prizes.
Backing the initiative, Southern Municipal Council chairman Abdulla Abdullatif described the campaign as a ‘smart and culturally relevant approach’ to raising awareness.
Mr Abdullatif
“This is exactly the kind of community-driven idea we need,” he said. “Instead of constantly removing illegal posters and repairing vandalised spaces, we are turning those same locations into something positive and inspiring. It creates pride in neighbourhoods while delivering an important national message.”
He added that public participation would be key to the campaign’s success.
“When people contribute to these artworks, they develop a sense of ownership of both the space and the message. That naturally encourages more responsible behaviour when it comes to electricity and water use,” he said.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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