An emerging art collective is set to stage its first exhibition today, featuring more than 30 striking creations inspired by diverse themes, including culture and spirituality.
The event by The Open Palette, which runs until May 15 at Oasis Mall in Juffair, brings to life engaging works across styles and mediums, with a portion of sales proceeds to be donated to the Bahrain Autistics Society.
The exhibition follows World Autism Awareness Day in April, which was marked this year under the theme ‘Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value’, highlighting and affirming the dignity and worth of all autistic people as part of our shared human future.
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurological and developmental condition characterised by differences in brain signalling that affect how people behave, communicate, interact and learn.
According to a recent report published in the Journal of the Bahrain Medical Society, the prevalence rate of autism in the kingdom is around four per 10,000 children.
Bahraini artist Bader Ali will exhibit a selection of his works, including a portrait of an elderly man with coffee, inspired by his national identity and Gulf heritage.
“My work focuses on capturing the ‘silent wisdom’ found in daily life and traditional settings,” the 47-year-old told the GDN.
“It represents dignity and serenity. The coffee cup is a symbol of hospitality and peace, while the man’s weathered features and steady gaze symbolise the wisdom of years and the strength of our roots,” explained the art exhibition organiser, with a career spanning more than 25 years.
The self-taught creative has staged major showcases such as Abdaat Fanniya and Abaq Al Turath, bringing together local and international artists.
Several new platforms and initiatives have emerged in recent years to provide creatives with avenues to present their work and connect with like-minded individuals, fostering an active exchange of ideas.
Among them is The Open Palette, which was born out of a simple idea – that art should be free and meaningful.
“We provide a space where artists can express themselves without boundaries, and where creativity is not just seen but felt,” said group co-founder Praseetha Ullas.
The homemaker from Salihiya has been living in Bahrain for the past 22 years and established the group with fellow artists Annie Killawala, Dr Sunila VA, Dr Ajumal and Hemendra Killawala.
In keeping with the group’s core philosophy, the upcoming exhibition has an open theme, encouraging participants to freely explore their creativity.
“My artwork shows a woman with long, flowing hair in rhythmic black-and-white waves that echo both musical vibration and water-like movement. Her lowered gaze and large eyes enhance the sense of quiet concentration and inner peace, with white doves surrounding her,” noted Bahraini artist Feryal Isshaq.
“After the first coat of acrylic on canvas, I used glass rhinestones, sticking them next to each other to add a glamorous touch to the piece, which shines through under strong light,” added the former educator from Saar, who switched to art full time six years ago.
The kingdom is home to many who have turned to art after giving up successful careers, nodding to the strong passion for creative pursuits among members of the community, while also honouring the kingdom as ‘a land of opportunities’ for artists.
Among them is Ms Killawala, who chose to pursue her love for art full time despite having a fulfilling career as a banker in Pune, India.
“Living here in Bahrain for over three years has shaped my artistic journey and broadened my exposure,” highlighted the creative from Juffair.
“My work is deeply inspired by Sufism – particularly its message of inner purification and divine connection. Working primarily with acrylics, I allow my mood to guide my palette.
“One of my most cherished pieces depicts whirling dervishes in vibrant robes against a textured ochre backdrop, symbolising unity, rhythm, and spiritual transcendence.”
The 59-year-old has previously exhibited at prominent venues, including the Indian Embassy and Bahrain Financial Harbour, as well as reputed hotels and malls.
The exhibition is open to all and will be inaugurated at 7pm, with live art performances set to be staged on May 15.
Those interested in supporting the cause can follow @bahrain_autistics on Instagram.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
•Abbas Al Mosawi
•Abbas Sarhan
•Abdulbaset Khunji
•Ahmed Ali Alshakhoori
•Anju Kapoor
•Annie Killawala
•Anuja Shivpuje
•Bader Al a’ali
•Bhavana Singh
•Deepa Parthiban
•Dr Prasobh K P
•Dr Sunila V A
•Feryal Isshaq
•Hussain Ali Alnoaimi
•Issa Hassan
•John Thomas
•Monisha Vyas
•Nada Ebrahim
Alsabbagh
•Niju Joy
•Nirvan Dsouza
•Numaira Butt
•Pia Banerjee Dsouza
•Praseetha Ullas
•Saira Qureshi
•Salah Sayed
•Santhosh Kabani
•Sneha Raj
•Zainab Yusuf
•Zamrin SA
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