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Daily Tribune
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Tribune
Bahraini & Saudi artists come together in a celebration of Gulf creativity
Abaad Fine Arts Gallery recently hosted a vibrant joint group art exhibition, featuring the works of 26 artists from the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The event was held under the patronage of Shura Council member MP Redha Faraj and served as a celebration of Gulf cultural unity and artistic expression. The exhibition showcased a rich tapestry of artistic styles and themes, reflecting both nations' shared heritage and contemporary perspectives. It offered a creative platform for Bahraini and Saudi artists to explore common cultural narratives while highlighting the diversity of their individual artistic voices. One of the standout participants was Bahraini artist Mahmood Hasan, who presented two symbolic monotype works titled 'The Dilmun Gazelle' and 'The Symbol.' The pieces drew inspiration from Bahrain's ancient Dilmun civilization, using the expressive monotype technique to explore themes of identity, symbolism, and history. In a special moment during the exhibition, Mahmood Hasan presented MP Redha Faraj with a framed reproduction of Pablo Picasso's renowned 1950 artwork 'The Leaping Bulls', originally created in Sheffield, England. The gesture underscored the enduring influence of global art icons and the timeless value of cultural exchange. MP Redha Faraj praised the artists for their contributions and stressed the importance of art in bridging communities and fostering understanding across borders. 'Art is a powerful medium that brings people together. Today's exhibition reflects not just our shared history but our collective vision for a creative and united Gulf,' he said. The exhibition was widely regarded as a success, reinforcing the role of the arts in strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties across the region. Attendees from various sectors of society, including artists, diplomats, and cultural enthusiasts, applauded the gallery's efforts to promote dialogue through creativity. This event marks yet another step in Bahrain's continued efforts to position itself as a regional hub for artistic innovation and cross-cultural collaboration.
Arab News
13-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Bahrain, Japan charting shared horizons at Expo 2025
The eyes of the world last month turned to the city of Osaka as Japan inaugurated Expo 2025 under the timely and fitting theme 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives.' This theme, along with its sub-themes 'Saving Lives,' 'Empowering Lives' and 'Connecting Lives,' reflects a global desire for inclusive innovation, human dignity and a sustainable future for future generations. It is in this spirit that Bahrain proudly joined the global community in presenting its fourth national pavilion at a World Expo. Our participation, organized by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, is not only a showcase of cultural pride and sustainable design, it is a reflection of our enduring friendship with Japan and our shared aspirations for the future. The Bahrain Pavilion, titled 'Connecting Seas,' pays homage to the kingdom's rich maritime legacy, which stretches from the ancient Dilmun civilization to the thriving nation we are today. Designed by renowned architect Lina Ghotmeh and located in the Expo's 'Empowering Lives' district, the pavilion draws on both Bahraini and Japanese craftsmanship, combining sustainability with symbolism in a structure made from more than 3,000 pieces of unengineered wood. This fusion of cultures — Bahraini artistry and Japanese woodworking — beautifully embodies the strong, deep and multifaceted connection we aim to highlight. Our seas have always been a source of connection: routes of trade, dialogue and discovery. Today, Bahrain continues this legacy as a gateway between East and West, offering an open, resilient and innovation-driven economy. The pavilion's upper floor, curated by the Bahrain Economic Development Board, invites visitors to explore Bahrain's strategic advantages, investment climate and vision for sustainable development. Bahrain and Japan are two island nations deeply connected to the world through the sea Ahmed Mohamed Aldoseri Cultural exchange lies at the heart of our participation. From the culinary artistry of chef Tala Bashmi, who brings Bahraini flavors to life with Japanese sensibility, to the multisensory exhibition designed to engage sight, sound, scent and touch, the pavilion offers an immersive experience that reflects Bahrain's dynamic identity — deeply rooted, yet boldly forward-looking. As Bahrain's ambassador to Japan, I see Expo 2025 as more than a world fair, it is a testament to the enduring ties between our two nations. Bahrain and Japan have long shared a relationship grounded in mutual respect, cultural affinity and economic cooperation. Bahrain and Japan are two island nations deeply connected to the world through the sea. For centuries, our peoples have looked outward, not only to trade and explore but also to build bridges of understanding, cooperation and friendship across continents and cultures. In many ways, the theme of Expo 2025 Osaka speaks to that same spirit of connection, resilience and innovation that has long defined our bilateral relationship. Our ties stretch back even before the formal establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972. In 1934, Japan became the first international recipient of a crude oil shipment from Bahrain, marking not only the kingdom's emergence as the Gulf's first oil producer, but also Japan's distinction as the first country in the world to receive crude oil exports from the Gulf region. This historic exchange symbolized the beginning of a relationship grounded in mutual benefit and shared economic vision. In 2023, bilateral non-oil trade between Bahrain and Japan reached an impressive $820 million, underscoring the growing strength of our economic ties. Bahrain and Japan trade key commodities, from industrial materials to high-end consumer goods. Re-exports from Bahrain to Japan also played an important role in our trade relations, with parts for turbines and jewelry among the top products. A robust framework of bilateral agreements continues to anchor this relationship. Landmark memorandums of understanding have been signed in the fields of agriculture, sanitation, oil and gas exploration, education and cultural exchange. Recent milestones include the 2023 entry into force of a visa waiver agreement for diplomatic and special passport holders and active collaboration in cancer research, academic exchanges and archaeological preservation. Expo 2025 offers a timely opportunity to reaffirm these bonds and to explore new areas of synergy Ahmed Mohamed Aldoseri Bahrain also remains a strong supporter of Japanese investment in the region, with many partners, agencies and branches of Japanese companies operating in Bahrain and with investments surpassing $400 million. Japanese companies continue to play an important role in Bahrain's economic diversification and industrial advancement. Likewise, Bahrain has engaged in collaborative platforms such as the Japan-Bahrain political dialogue and defense exchanges, highlighting the strategic trust between our nations. Together, these efforts form a dynamic and evolving relationship, one that is not only grounded in history but also oriented toward a future of innovation, peace and sustainable growth. Expo 2025 offers a timely opportunity to reaffirm these bonds and to explore new areas of synergy that serve both our peoples and the global community. As Bahrain proudly opens its pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, we do so not only as a participant, but as a partner and friend to Japan. Our histories and aspirations are intertwined and together we will continue to chart a course toward a more connected, sustainable and innovative world. As Japan welcomes the world to the Kansai region, Bahrain invites the world to discover our story — a story of resilience, innovation and connectivity. And we are confident that the seeds of dialogue sown here will blossom into new partnerships and ideas that benefit not only our nations but humanity at large. So, I warmly welcome all visitors to Expo 2025 Osaka to experience the Bahrain Pavilion — a space where heritage meets innovation and where the spirit of the sea continues to guide us toward a shared future.
Daily Tribune
11-05-2025
- General
- Daily Tribune
Artist Al Fadala explores Bahraini heritage through contemporary visual dialogue
In a striking exhibition that bridges the past with the present, Bahraini artist Hajar Nasser Al Fadala presents a contemporary reinterpretation of the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage. Titled 'Allow Popular Heritage', the exhibition was held last April at the Safia Ali Kanoo Art Centre, and attended by Shaikha Dawa bint Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, a member of the National Council for Arts. Drawing inspiration from Bahrain's deep civilisational roots — from the ancient Dilmun era to the symbols of popular heritage — Al Fadala reconstructs cultural elements through artworks that combine technical simplicity with semantic richness. Visual dialogue Her pieces invite viewers into a visual dialogue between cultural memory and modern identity, raising questions about the evolving place of heritage in contemporary life. Rather than presenting heritage as a fixed narrative, Al Fadala's work transforms it into an interactive concept, encouraging viewers to engage critically with their cultural surroundings. Central to her artistic vision is the traffic sign, particularly the red triangle meaning 'allow passage,' which she uses as a metaphor for societal attitudes toward heritage. Symbolic tool In this context, the sign becomes a symbolic tool, suggesting either the integration or exclusion of heritage from everyday life. 'The works aren't nostalgic or documentary,' Al Fadala explains, 'but rather symbolic structures offering a new reading of place and identity.' Her compositions evoke collective memory, while the background colours — earthy browns, beiges, and the texture of palm fronds — reflect architectural traditions and domestic spaces of old Bahraini homes. These tones root the viewer in the physical and emotional geography of the past.
Daily Tribune
03-04-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain's pavilion set to debut at Expo 2025 Osaka
The Kingdom of Bahrain will inaugurate its fourth national participation in the World Expo at Expo 2025 Osaka in less than a month. Construction is ongoing for the Kingdom's pavilion, themed 'Connecting Seas', which, upon completion, will stand as one of the most sustainable pavilions in the Expo. The pavilion seamlessly blends modernity with heritage, narrating Bahrain's enduring connection with the sea from the Dilmun civilisation to the present day. Theme Expo 2025 Osaka will take place in the Kansai region of Japan from April 13 to October 13, under the theme 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives'. It features three sub-themes: 'Saving Lives', 'Empowering Lives', and 'Connecting Lives.' Organisers expect over 28 million visitors to explore contributions from around 150 countries. The Expo will feature various events, providing opportunities for people to connect and exchange knowledge for the betterment of humanity. National day Each pavilion will have the opportunity to designate a national day during the Expo to celebrate its culture and values. Located in the Empowering Lives district, the Kingdom of Bahrain's Pavilion, is organised by Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), and designed by the Paris based Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh with her practice Lina Ghotmeh; Architecture spans 995 square metres with a total height of 13.7 metres across four levels, offering a scenic view of the sea. His Excellency Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, President of BACA, emphasised that participating in the Expo for the fourth consecutive time provides Bahrain with a vital global stage to showcase our nation's cultural achievements and solidify the Kingdom's position as a leading hub of innovation, culture, and a dynamic, advanced economy. Vision He added that the vision seeks to highlight Bahrain's rich heritage, long history, current achievements, and future goals. By showcasing the Kingdom's maritime legacy, which is central to its civilisation, the aim is to show that while Bahrain is deeply rooted in strong values and culture, it also embraces innovation and sustainability to build a better future.
Gulf Insider
02-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Bahrain's Pavilion Set to Debut at Expo 2025 Osaka
In less than a month, the Kingdom of Bahrain will inaugurate its fourth national participation in the World Expo at Expo 2025 Osaka. Construction is ongoing for the Kingdom's pavilion, themed 'Connecting Seas', which, upon completion, will stand as one of the most sustainable pavilions in the Expo. The pavilion seamlessly blends modernity with heritage, narrating Bahrain's enduring connection with the sea from the Dilmun civilisation to the present day. Expo 2025 Osaka will take place in the Kansai region of Japan from April 13 to October 13, under the theme 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives'. It features three sub-themes: 'Saving Lives', 'Empowering Lives', and 'Connecting Lives.' Organisers expect over 28 million visitors to explore contributions from around 150 countries. The Expo will feature various events, providing opportunities for people to connect and exchange knowledge for the betterment of humanity. Each pavilion will have the opportunity to designate a national day during the Expo to celebrate its culture and values. Located in the Empowering Lives district, the Kingdom of Bahrain's Pavilion, is organised by Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), and designed by the Paris based Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh with her practice Lina Ghotmeh; Architecture spans 995 square metres with a total height of 13.7 metres across four levels, offering a scenic view of the sea. Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, President of BACA, emphasised that participating in the Expo for the fourth consecutive time provides Bahrain with a vital global stage to showcase our nation's cultural achievements and solidify the Kingdom's position as a leading hub of innovation, culture, and a dynamic, advanced economy. He added that the vision seeks to highlight Bahrain's rich heritage, long history, current achievements, and future goals. By showcasing the Kingdom's maritime legacy, which is central to its civilisation, the aim is to show that while Bahrain is deeply rooted in strong values and culture, it also embraces innovation and sustainability to build a better future. Noura Al Sayeh Holtrop, Deputy Commissioner General of the Pavilion, highlights that the pavilion's architectural design reflects the strong connection between the Bahraini community and the sea. She explained that it is inspired by the Kingdom of Bahrain's maritime heritage and the traditional ships that are an important part of its history. She also noted that the design combines Bahraini craftsmanship with Japanese woodworking techniques. The pavilion is constructed out of wood, embodying the Kingdom's vision of promoting sustainability and taking advantage of its proximity to the sea for natural cooling and ventilation, which minimises the need for mechanical cooling systems. After the conclusion of the Expo, all components are planned to be recycled. Lina Ghotmeh explained that the Bahrain Pavilion represents sustainability, cultural exchange, and craftsmanship. Built from around 3,000 pieces of unengineered wood joined together without extra materials, it generates minimal waste. Its open shape, inspired by a dhow, reflects themes of travel and connection. The structure avoids concrete foundations, allowing most materials to be reused. Natural ventilation helps reduce energy use, making the pavilion an example of sustainable and innovative design. BACA has collaborated with artistic talent to craft a unique experience that engages the senses. The pavilion is divided into five areas, each evoking one of the five senses and includes collaborations with Bahraini design company Shepherd Studio on the exhibition build and furniture, smell artist Sissel Tolaas on two smell libraries, and artist-composer Hassan Hujairi with a special sound piece. The exhibition extends into a dedicated floor outlining Bahrain's future goals. Overseen by the Economic Development Board (EDB), it highlights Bahrain's strategic location and global standing as an open economic centre and investment-friendly environment. A café helmed by chef Tala Bashmi, will offer a curated menu that fuses authentic Bahraini flavours with innovative Japanese touches. Enhancing the experience, the gift shop showcases innovative products inspired by local heritage, while Bahraini fashion designer Lulwa Al Amin has created bespoke uniforms for the pavilion's volunteers and staff, reflecting Bahrain's cultural identity and innovative spirit. The Kingdom of Bahrain's Pavilion promises an immersive journey to visitors that reflects Bahrain's historical, cultural, and economic ties to the sea. Also read: BIC Completely Sells Out All Grandstand Tickets For 2025 F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix
