The Bahraini flag will be brought to life through a special exhibition celebrating the kingdom’s national identity and rich cultural heritage.
Titled ‘Flag of Love and Peace’, the event presents the flag through a fresh artistic perspective, turning it into a cultural and human expression that embodies the kingdom’s spirit and core values of peace, harmony and social unity.
The showcase will feature works by 26 artists of various nationalities, presented through a diverse range of mediums including acrylics paintings, beadwork, water colours and photography.
Organised by a collective of Bahraini artists, it officially opened on Saturday at The Art Hotel and Resort in Amwaj Islands, and will run until June 13.
Speaking to the GDN, Bahraini artist Feryal Bastaki, who spearheaded the event, said the exhibition aims to highlight Bahrain’s history, people and values through a contemporary artistic lens.
“This event was inspired by the need to present the country’s identity in a modern artistic way that reaches all segments of society and makes art a unifying language to express this message,” she explained.
Ms Bastaki’s artwork printed on a plate
Ms Bastaki will also present one of her own artworks at the exhibition – a piece originally created digitally four years ago before being recreated on canvas using heavy acrylic and palette knife techniques.
The technique involves using a blunt, flexible metal or plastic tool to mix and apply paint. Instead of bristles, artists use the flat side, thin edge or top of the knife to spread, scrape or stamp paint, creating highly textured, three-dimensional effects.
“The artwork depicts a woman proudly waving the Bahraini flag and symbolises the pride, beauty and history of Bahrain,” she said. “I decided to recreate it on canvas because I felt it perfectly reflected the spirit of the exhibition,” she said.
Ms Sara Madan’s art Dr Sunila V A’s work
Ms Bastaki added that the image had previously been featured on products such as mini mirrors and tote bags because of her deep personal connection to the piece.
She said the exhibition was particularly meaningful because it was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of several Bahraini artists, including Abbas Al Mousawi, Aliya Al Hamlan and Zainab Yousuf.
Mr Al Mousawi’s work
“The exhibition idea came after a live painting session at Mr Al Mousawi’s gallery,” she explained. “As an art co-ordinator at The Art Hotel and Resort, I suggested organising the exhibition to bring together artists in celebration of Bahrain’s identity and values.”
She also highlighted the importance of art in conveying powerful messages.
“Art has an exceptional ability to communicate human messages in a deep and moving way. Words may be read, but images, colours and music touch emotions directly,” she said.
“Art is not merely an aesthetic practice, but also an effective tool for social dialogue.”
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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