Bahrain For The Art Loving Soul

A BURGEONING CONTEMPORARY ART SCENE IS CREATING A STIR IN THE ARABIAN GULF

- Prachi Joshi

I spot a large, charcoal wall drawing of a woman’s face with the words “Art Will Survive” scrawled across in bold red. The legend is repeated in Arabic, French, and surprisingly, in Hindi. I’m peeking through the glass walls of Al Riwaq Art Space in Bahrain’s bohemian quarter of Adliya, which is choc-a-bloc with cool boutiques, ritzy restaurants, and has art around every corner. While the building still stands, Al Riwaq shuttered its popular exhibition space and café last year, but art continues to survive elsewhere.

When thinking of contemporary art, Bahrain may not be the first destination that springs to mind. Yet this tiny Middle Eastern kingdom has an emerging art scene that deserves attention. With dedicated art galleries showcasing both local and international talent, and the annual Art Bahrain Across Borders (ArtBAB) event held every March, there’s never been a better time for art enthusiasts visiting Bahrain.

GALLERIES GALORE