Bahrain’s heritage is being seen through a new lens in a series of artworks recently shared by Bahraini artist Saad Al Essa on Instagram, where bold geometric forms bring traditional scenes and cultural memories to life.
From local landmarks and cultural practices to traditional attire and historic sites, his work transforms familiar aspects of Bahraini life while reflecting his belief that heritage is not confined to the past, but continues to evolve alongside the society that carries it.
“I have always been fascinated by the visual rhythm of Bahrain – its architecture, historic alleyways, traditional crafts and community gatherings,” the 31-year-old from Muharraq told the GDN.
“In my early years, I explored more traditional artistic styles, but over time my practice evolved towards abstraction and geometric structure.
“I discovered that by breaking traditional visual elements into bold geometric forms and clean lines, I could create a fresh emotional experience while preserving the essence of our cultural identity.”
One of his pieces, Beyond the Screen Static, takes viewers back to a simpler form of social interaction, depicting a group of men gathered around a table enjoying traditional drinks and snacks, while a television and a radio sit in the background.
“This piece invites viewers to put technology aside and reconnect with the traditional ways we once communicated and interacted,” said Mr Al Essa.
“It reflects the value of genuine human connection through face-to-face conversations and shared experiences.”
That sense of nostalgia also runs through another work recently shared on his Instagram, Once Upon A Time, which revisits the atmosphere of traditional Bahraini homes through the image of young girls playing traditional folk games.
“I wanted it to capture everyday rituals and preserve a shared collective memory, celebrating the simplicity and warmth of community life.”
The artwork evokes a time when neighbourhood alleys and doorsteps served as communal extensions of the home, where children gathered to play and where collective rhymes, folklore and local customs were passed naturally from one generation to another.
His exploration of Bahrain’s past also extends to its musical traditions, with another piece depicting the traditional Samarat – intimate evening gatherings centred around music that once offered a welcome form of entertainment after the long days of pearl diving.
Beyond these cultural traditions, he also draws inspiration from the region’s natural world.
“My piece, Saluki, reflects the enduring spirit of the animal, serving as a tribute to the region’s wildlife, and capturing the emotional and spiritual memory that has long been part of our cultural identity,” he said.
Historically, Salukis were valued by nomadic tribes for hunting, becoming deeply connected to the region’s way of life. Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who ruled Bahrain from 1932 to 1942, was also known to have kept a pack of Salukis that accompanied him on hunting trips across the Middle East.
Mr Al Essa now focuses primarily on private projects and custom commissions. Through his work, however, he hopes to spark a wider conversation about how cultural identity can be preserved in a rapidly changing world.
“I believe we can embrace innovation and contemporary design while remaining deeply connected to our heritage,” he said.
“I want to encourage people to consider not only where Bahrain’s cultural identity comes from, but also where it is going, and how traditions, memories and values can be carried into the future without allowing them to fade.”
For more information, follow @saadalesa on Instagram.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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