The winners of the Bahrain Arts Society’s Concordia art photography competition have been announced, honouring both amateur and professional photographers who captured the vibrancy and symbolism of the stunning stained-glass installation at Bahrain International Airport.
Organised in April to mark World Art Day, the contest – divided into two main categories: professional and mobile photography – drew dozens of entries from photographers across the kingdom, since being launched shortly after the airport revealed the installation during a ceremony attended by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
“In the presence of beauty, perspectives multiply and visions align,” said a society spokesperson.
“We are pleased to announce the results of the competition, where your lenses beautifully captured the essence of harmony and serenity of the artwork.”
In the mobile photography category, first place went to Peter Anthony, followed by Hasan Ramzi Alkhaldi and Jeet Prakash.
In the professional photography category, top honours went to Fadhi Muhammed, followed by Nader Albazzaz and Syeda Huma Peeran.
Filipino Mr Anthony, aged 40, told the GDN about his experience.
“I used my iPhone – my go-to camera nowadays for quick snaps,” he explained.
“In all my submissions, I focused on perspective and symmetry. I wanted to ensure a perfect balance between the subject and its surroundings.
“The Concordia had to have depth, and I aimed to frame it in a way that would guide the viewer’s eyes towards the centre.
“When you are leaving Bahrain, the Concordia is among the first things you see. I wanted to capture that moment and make people connect immediately with the artwork.”
Mr Alkhaldi, a 32-year-old Bahraini business teacher, said his winning photo was taken spontaneously during a trip through the airport.
“I was struck by the stunning colours and patterns of the large stained-glass window – the vibrant contrast between the leaves, birds and geometric motifs felt almost surreal,” he said.
“What really caught my eye was the silhouette of a man in traditional attire seated alone, adding a powerful human element to the vivid backdrop.”
He added that his photography style focuses on everyday moments that become extraordinary through light and composition.
“Winning this competition means a lot to me – it’s a reminder that meaningful images can be created with simple tools, and that storytelling is more important than technical perfection.”
Indian expatriate Mr Prakash, aged 19, who visits Bahrain, his ‘home away from home’ when he is not busy studying film-making in Mumbai, offered his own perspective on the inspiration behind his entry.
“It was actually the last day for submissions, and coincidentally, my friend Dhyan Joshi, whom I hadn’t seen in months, was returning to Bahrain that day,” he explained.
“Another close friend and I reached the airport a few hours early, planning the moment in advance.
“As soon as Dhyan arrived, I was ready with the shot that captured ‘The Vibrant Reunion’ of two childhood friends reuniting after being apart due to their studies. It was a spontaneous yet meaningful capture, and I used only a tripod and my phone to take the photo. The concept was also hand in hand with the theme, emphasising connection and harmony.
“As a film-making student, this achievement gives me added motivation and confidence to keep telling stories visually – whether through photography or film.
“I see this as just the beginning of a creative journey that I hope will lead to impactful storytelling through cinema.”
The 34-metre by 17-metre glass Concordia installation comprises 127 mouthblown stained-glass panels crafted by artisans in Germany, weighing a total of 32 tonnes.
The structure by acclaimed British artist Sir Brian Clarke celebrates Bahrain’s commitment to cross-cultural connection and artistic collaboration, and has quickly become a landmark feature for arriving travellers.
The winning photographs will be displayed on digital screens at the airport’s terminals and featured on the social media platforms of both the airport and the Bahrain Arts Society.
Winners will also receive cash prizes in recognition of their work.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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