AN art exhibition showcasing Bahrain’s culture and landscapes has been unveiled, bringing unique artistic interpretations of the kingdom and its people under one roof.
Nine creatives are presenting their works under the theme ‘Bahrain – Lines... Hues and Visual Echos’.
Renowned abstract artist and Indian expatriate Sudeep Deshpande, 44, has curated the collection that opened yesterday at Bahrain Financial Harbour, featuring diverse creations, from paintings and abstracts to mixed media.
“Bahraini culture has always fascinated me and reflects in my compositions on canvas and in my sculptures,” the Adliya resident, who has been living in Bahrain for the last 15 years, told the GDN.
“Women are the carriers of culture and heritage from one generation to another. In my artistic journey, it is the women who have inspired and motivated me in different ways. The blend of classic and contemporary architectural lines of Bahrain have also been a focal aspect in my works, and both of these aspects reflect in my creations at this exhibition,” author and architect Mr Deshpande added.
Indian expatriate Sriparna Ghose’s, 49, artworks reflect a deep exploration of the essence and simplicity of Arab life. In her exhibits, she seeks to convey the universal emotions and human experiences that transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.
“My approach focuses on bringing each composition to life through meticulous attention to detail, striving to evoke a sense of connection and understanding,” the self-taught artist from Saar, who has been living in the kingdom with her husband and daughter for the last 18 years, noted.
The former media planner and market researcher exhibited artistic flair when she was three years old, which was encouraged by her father and art teachers in school. An avid traveller, she also draws her inspiration from her globetrotting adventures.
“In the portrait of an elderly Bahraini man, I have used charcoal and pencil to capture not only the physical likeness but also the emotional depth and wisdom that age carries,” she said.
Dr Sunila VA, 44, is participating with her pallet-knife creation ‘Dallah and Dates’, which captures the essence of Bahraini and Arab tradition with vibrant acrylic hues. The Ayurvedic (Indian alternative medicine) doctor from Kerala always had a penchant for art, but took it up seriously only eight years ago. The palate knife is her favourite artistic medium alongside acrylics.
“The dallah symbolises the warmth of Bahraini hospitality. The background features a blend of warm colours that evoke the inviting atmosphere of a traditional Bahraini gathering, enhancing the overall sense of community,” the Hidd resident, who came to Bahrain three years back, explained.
Architect Tejbir Singh, 61 has brought the Bahrain Pearling Path alive with his oil painting. A Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) World Heritage site, the 3.5km pathway in Muharraq consists of three oyster beds, a segment of the coast and the seafront Bu Mahir fort.
“My surroundings inspire me. This inspiration could come from the footprints in the sand or the play of lights and shadows at night. But in most cases it’s the urban fabric around me, the architecture and heritage which finds its way into my works,” the self-taught artist from Juffair explained.
Mr Singh, who has been living in Bahrain with his family more than 25 year, was introduced to oil paints at an early age, but he also works with watercolours, pastels, and markers. The expatriate from Delhi, India has also exhibited his works in London and the US.
‘Bahrain – Lines… Hues and Visual Echos is open for viewing until February 13.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
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