A special programme featuring an exhibition, lecture and workshop exploring the ancient inscriptions and symbols of the Dilmun civilisation will be held this week as part of an archaeological research project.
Curated by Bahraini researcher and archaeologist Mahmood Al Baqlawa, the exhibition, titled In-za-ak, will showcase 47 works inspired by cuneiform tablets and Dilmun-era symbols, highlighting the significance of one of the region’s most influential ancient civilisations, with Bahrain recognised as its central site.
Cuneiform tablets are among the earliest known forms of writing, developed by the Sumerians in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) between 3500BC and 3000BC. It was created by pressing a stylus into soft clay to form wedge-shaped symbols, representing word-signs (pictographs) and later, phonograms or word-concepts (closer to the modern-day understanding of a word).
The exhibition will open on Tuesday at 7.30pm at Abaad Gallery in A’ali, followed by a lecture the following day at 7.30pm and a workshop on May 16 from 4pm to 6pm.
“My project, which began from a deep personal interest in this field, explores how symbolic markings were used as a form of communication, how they appeared on pottery, tokens and seals, how they were discovered and what these symbols represented within society,” Mr Al Baqlawa told the GDN.
“I have produced hand-printed works using various techniques to merge the intellectual and cultural identity of Dilmun with contemporary abstract artistic impressions using ancient symbols.”
As part of the programme, Mr Al Baqlawa will also deliver a lecture on May 13, examining the work of pioneering Bahraini artist Rashid Al Oraifi, who was widely recognised in the Arab art world for blending modern artistic styles with themes inspired by the Dilmun civilisation. The programme will conclude with a workshop on May 16, introducing participants to Sumerian and Akkadian cuneiform writing, as well as ancient Dilmun inscriptions and symbols.
Mr Al Baqlawa said preserving awareness of Bahrain’s ancient heritage was increasingly important in the modern digital age.
“I believe it is crucial to highlight the kingdom’s ancient history and also introduce it to people who may be unaware of it,” he said, adding that as technology and social media continue to evolve, it is important for people to remain connected to their roots and history.
“These artworks serve as lasting marks of the past that we can still study and learn from today.”
Growing up in Manama and Bilad Al Qadeem exposed Mr Al Baqlawa to various cultures and experiences, which later inspired him to turn his passion into a career.
“It gave me a really unique perspective on culture and antiquities and it made me want to learn more,” he said, adding that he went on to secure a Master’s in history from St Joseph University in Beirut, in addition to studying Sumerian cuneiform writing.
Mr Al Baqlawa previously staged a solo exhibition in 2024 showcasing artistic interpretations of Dilmun symbols and artefacts.
He also organised a workshop attended by more than 40 linguists and history enthusiasts from around the world, where participants learned about Bahrain’s cultural heritage, clay writing techniques and cuneiform script.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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