Bahraini creative Latifa Al Shaikh has made a proud mark on the global art scene, becoming the sole Arab talent to showcase work at the prestigious Women in Art Biennale in London this year.
The self-taught abstract fine arts enthusiast unveiled a striking piece from her new four-part series at the internationally acclaimed exhibition, which brought together 150 exceptional female artists from 50 countries earlier this month.
While there, she was also recognised for her ‘outstanding achievement and impact on the visual arts’.
“I was truly honoured to receive an invitation from one of the most reputable art curators in Canada to participate in Women in Art London,” Ms Al Shaikh told the GDN.
“The exhibition is internationally recognised as a platform that celebrates women artists from across the globe, and being part of it felt like a natural step in my artistic journey,” the 37-year-old added.
“For me, the experience carried even greater significance as I was the only Arab participant, representing Bahrain and the wider Gulf region, on this stage.”
Ms Al Shaikh with the painting exhibited in London, featuring the ducks
Ms Al Shaikh has been developing the new four-part series as her ‘new signature line’. The painting showcased in London was completed in November last year and serves as the first reveal of this collection.
“I wanted to present it in London to introduce my evolving artistic language to an international audience in a very deliberate and meaningful way,” she said.
The former banker from Janabiya draws her inspiration from various elements of life.
Another painting by the artist
Coming from an artistic family, she began her journey at the tender age of 12, creating captivating pieces using acrylic paint and mixed media. While each of her paintings reflects a unique emotion, they have a distinct personality that honours her style.
“My creative process is rooted in layering, whether of ideas, materials or symbols,” she said.
“I often combine different media to reflect the complexity of human experience and cultural memory. For this exhibition, I worked with oil and acrylic paints, blending texture and colour to bring the composition to life.”
In the past, Ms Al Shaikh has participated in numerous exhibitions in Bahrain and internationally.
A previous creation depicting Egyptian singer and film actress, the late Umm Kulthum, who is popular among Bahrainis
Recently, she displayed her work at the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo and at Bahrain Financial Harbour for the Bahrain Arts Society this year. She also showcased paintings at the Safeya Kanoo Hub for the Bahrain Businesswomen Society last year.
“A central element in the painting that I exhibited in London is my signature yellow rubber duck,” she said.
“At first glance, it may appear playful, but it carries a deeper symbolism. For me, the duck represents resilience, strength, and power, a reminder that even in turbulent waters, one can remain afloat, steady, and full of light. It has become a recurring motif in my practice, embodying joy while standing for endurance and adaptability,” the creative entrepreneur, who owns her namesake art gallery, explained.
Not one to rest on past laurels, Ms Al Shaikh is preparing for a series of upcoming exhibitions.
“Looking ahead, I have exciting exhibitions lined up, as well as further international collaborations this year,” she said. “I believe in having daily goals as well as future goals. Every day I dedicate myself to refining my skills, expanding my knowledge and exploring new creative territories. This ongoing process keeps me grounded while also pushing me forward,” she added.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
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