A Bahraini medic has turned to her canvas to convey a powerful message of resilience and hope amid uncertain times, creating a striking depiction of the Tree of Life that symbolises the belief that the kingdom’s roots are stronger than anything.
Dr Zainab Al Mohsen, 47, said many people across Bahrain are closely monitoring developments in the US-Iran conflict following the announcement of an indefinite ceasefire, amid ongoing uncertainty over whether negotiations will ultimately result in a lasting agreement.
She explained that her painting, titled The Tree of Our Life, serves as a reminder that, regardless of outcomes, the community possesses the strength to endure, even as questions remain over what lies ahead in the aftermath of the ceasefire.
Dr Al Mohsen
“We are a small island with roots that are deeply embedded in our culture, just like the Tree of Life,” she said. “Whatever happens, we will be able to handle what comes next.”
One of Bahrain’s most iconic natural landmarks, the Tree of Life is estimated to be more than 400 years old, with some studies suggesting it dates back to around 1582 to 1583. Standing at 9.75 metres tall in the heart of the desert, the tree has survived for centuries without a known water source, becoming a powerful symbol of resilience and survival.
“It symbolises innovative ways to survive, yet it stands so simply in the desert,” she said, adding that she wanted her artwork to reflect the strength and resilience of the Bahraini people.
The mum-of-three said that during recent tensions, she realised the importance of having a creative outlet.
Old water tanks in Seef District area
“During a conversation with my children, I asked them what hobbies they would have in case we lost power,” Dr Al Mohsen recalled. “It made me realise how important it is to have a creative hobby that keeps your hands active.”
Formerly a full-time physician at the American Mission Hospital, Dr Al Mohsen recently shifted to part-time work to devote more time to her art.
What began as a hobby just three years ago has since grown into what she describes as an ‘obsessive’ passion, with many of her works now being sold. Although she showed artistic promise as a child and once considered pursuing it professionally, she chose a career in medicine instead.
“I basically took 30 years off, but once I started again, everything just clicked,” she said.
Her recent work focuses on still life, landscapes, and urban scenes, rendered in a classical oil painting style. She is particularly drawn to highlighting Bahrain’s lesser‑known locales. While Muharraq and Manama continue to be popular artistic subjects, she has chosen instead to feature areas such as Janabiyah, Saar, Barbar, Budaiya, Zinj, Karannah and Bilad Al Qadeem. “A lady once contacted me to thank me for showcasing her area, saying she felt her village and identity were finally being represented,” she said. “As an artist, it is important to create honest work that reflects reality.”
Dr Al Mohsen embraces the imperfections in her work, allowing brushstrokes and elements of the canvas to remain visible.
“In reality, we all make mistakes,” she admitted. “Instead of hiding them, it is important to show them.”
Among the prominent paintings on her Instagram account is one titled ‘The good old days’ – a striking work on the historic Qassari Well in Bilad Al Qadeem, once a gathering place where children would walk to swim and play during the summer.
Another piece, ‘Into Karranah’ captures old water tanks in the Seef District area, reflecting the contrast between the area’s past and modern development. The artwork ‘Qassari Days’ highlights traditional Bahraini architecture, inspired by structures near the well where people once gathered to wash clothes.
Offering advice to aspiring artists, Dr Al Mohsen encourages consistency and authenticity. “Start small and paint from life,” she said.
“Avoid copying from photos on social media – it is always obvious. Try to paint every day, even for a couple of hours, to build muscle memory. No matter how much you study, nothing replaces practice and experimentation,” she added.
Check out Dr Al Mohsen’s work on Instagram @zainab.paintings.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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