The art scene in Bahrain is growing both creatively and commercially attracting combined sales in excess of $2,700,000, it has been revealed, through 17 events, four of which were held in the kingdom.
The staggering figure underpins the island’s reputation as an emerging art hub with a growing number of Bahraini artists being showcased on the international stage through initiatives such as the International Artists Programme.
Championing Bahrain as an art destination and exporting Bahraini talent across borders is founder and CEO of Art Select, Kaneka Subberwal, who said: “The success of Bahraini artists, especially the emerging talent, on the global stage is a sign that Bahraini art as a movement is gathering momentum.
“A clear sign of this is the international recognition from the art world that Bahrain has now achieved. This is a commercial success for Bahraini art that is increasingly finding its place in some of the most prestigious collections around the world.”
Ms Subberwal, a renowned international art collector and consultant, revealed the success at a select media gathering at the boutique Merchant House Hotel, near Manama Souq, will boasts an impressive art collection with the work of Bahraini artists displayed in the same building as acclaimed pieces by Andy Warhol and Bernard Buffet.
“Using art as a bridge between Bahrain and the world, we have been instrumental in attracting the art world to the kingdom,” she added. “Bahrain’s booming art scene has collectors and art enthusiasts from across the globe connecting with established, emerging and talented young Bahraini artists whilst also enjoying all that the Kingdom of Bahrain has to offer.
“With support of the international network developed over decades, Bahraini artists have now exhibited in some of the most highly-respected art destinations including exhibitions in Moscow, Paris, Venice, India, Singapore and London.”
The island’s art and crafts scene has come a long way since the inaugural Art Bahrain Across Borders (ArtBAB) held in 2015. There are now more than 70 artists showcasing their work.
Events such as the recently held Paris Biennale, taking place at the prestigious Grand Palais in Paris, saw Bahrain’s artistic talent being firmly put on the global map with the kingdom featuring as the ‘guest of honour’ country.
Conceived and executed, co-curated by Art Select in strategic partnership with Tamkeen, the International Artists Programme has taken Bahraini artists to seven different countries since 2016, including showcasing the kingdom’s talent at prestigious artistic centres such as the Saatchi Gallery in London, Arsenale at Venice Biennale and the Singapore Museum of Contemporary Art.
Bahraini artists Ahmed Al Asad and Maryam Al Noaimi are part of the first batch on a residency programme in the USA.
Residency Unlimited is a New York-based non-profit art organisation that supports the creation, presentation and dissemination of contemporary art through its unique residency programme and year-round public programmes.
It provides customised residencies for international and local artists and curators in New York City focused on network support, project and production assistance, as well as public exposure. This includes weekly meetings with art professionals, aligning artistic and curatorial interests, regular project support with RU staff, and a public programme opportunity. Collaboration and partnerships are at the heart of our mission.
Closer to home, 2020 will be the fifth edition of ArtBAB and organisers already describe it as being ‘a big draw’ for Bahrain. Arrangements are continuing but GDN understands a major focus will be on emerging talents in the kingdom’s art scene.
