Bridging the Gulf

Gulf Weekly

22-05-2025

The Bahrain Businesswomen's Society is set to launch its third annual art exhibition today, May 22, at the Safeya Ali Kanoo Hub, under the patronage of National Arts Council member Shaikha Dwa bint Khalid Al Khalifa, bringing together works by 12 Bahraini artists and four guest artists from Kuwait.
The showcase, titled Wasl, which means 'connection' in Arabic, explores artistic and cultural ties across the Gulf, highlighting women's creativity, regional heritage, and innovation in visual storytelling.
'This exhibition is a great opportunity to showcase the talents of our members and promote the value of art and culture,' the society's board member and economic and cultural committee head Manar Sirriyeh told GulfWeekly.
'In its third edition, Wasl features a total of 16 artists whose work celebrates intellectual innovation and creative exchange.
'It's a powerful step in strengthening Bahrain's cultural identity.'
Participating Bahraini artists include Amina Hasan, Aysha Akbari, Fatemah Al Dilawer, Safeya Kanoo, Nawal Al Sabbagh, Salwa Al Moayyed, Noor Al Sairafi, Latifa Al Shaikh, Fareeda Bader, Rand Alkishtaini, Waheeda Al Doy, and Badriya Abdulrahman.
They are joined by Kuwaiti artists Amira Ashkanani, Ibtesam Alosfour, Dr Jamila Salem, and Dr Abeer Alkandari.
Amina, a member of the Society and contributing artist, is showcasing two paintings: The Peacock, symbolising elegance and inner strength, and a piece depicting a traditional Bahraini folk dance.
'Art is a personal journey of discovery and expression,' she added. 'In this exhibition, I present two artworks that are close to my heart.'
Meanwhile, Rand's contributions include functional art pieces – handmade palm straw table lamps – and a vibrant, playful painting highlighting the regional symbol of the palm tree.
'My pieces in the exhibition explore the theme of connection through both functionality and cultural symbolism,' she added.
'The Tala table lamps are designed with a sustainable approach, using natural palm straw to highlight the artistic idea behind the small palm tree, called 'Tala' in Arabic.
'This piece connects nature, tradition, and modern design, emphasising how sustainable materials can foster a deeper bond with our environment.
'The painting reflects a joyful, childish style with vibrant colours that evoke energy and positivity.
'The palm tree, a familiar plant in our region, symbolises growth and resilience, further reinforcing the idea of connection to nature, community, and cultural roots.
Noor's work, from her Chromaflora series, uses flowers as metaphors for memory and identity.
From Kuwait, Amira brings two paintings under the title Love of a Woman, drawing on themes of beauty and femininity through decorative and abstract styles.
'I always draw inspiration for my artwork from women and their interests in beauty, colour, and symbolic expression,' said Amira, a veteran artist and former art education supervisor in Kuwait's Education Ministry.
'Wasl is a beautiful opportunity to share my work in a regional context and connect with fellow artists.'
Organisers say the event represents a growing commitment to supporting female artists and fostering a thriving arts scene in Bahrain.
'Our society believes in the power of culture and creativity to inspire and empower,' said the society's president Dr Fatima Al Kooheji.
With themes ranging from tradition and heritage to identity, sustainability, and abstraction, the exhibition is a vibrant testament to the artistic links being formed across the Gulf.
It welcomes visitors of all ages to experience this celebration of regional creativity and women's voices in art.
The exhibition will be inaugurated today at noon and run daily from 9am to 9pm until May 28.