Local News

Creativity to be showcased

September 22 - 28, 2010
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The kingdom's creative folk are being invited to show off their talents and skills to the public during the winter months at Bahrain's renowned paved dining district in Adliya - Block 338.

The Al Riwaq Art Space, a non-profit gallery, will host the outdoor art and crafts event titled Market 338 to be held from December to March, twice a month.

It is aimed at encouraging and promoting local and Bahrain-based designers and artists to exhibit and sell their work. Saba Napoletano, communication manager, said: "We will be renting out 20 stands featuring two artists each who wish to showcase their paintings, sculptures, crafts, jewellery, cupcakes - anything!

"We have been working on this project since last year and we are pleased that it will finally come to be realised this December.

"The event will allow artists of any medium to be a part of the very first young and trendy 'outdoor market' in Bahrain."

Market 338 will be located just outside the Al Riwaq Art Space and will run to the edge of the district at Century Restaurant.

Saba said: "The lovely weather Bahrain enjoys during the winter months will encourage visitors from different parts of the world to visit. As it will be running alongside many important events like National Day, Christmas, New Year, Valentine's Day, Formula 1 and the Spring of Culture it will be an excellent opportunity for participants to get the exposure they deserve."

The gallery is currently under negotiations with a design firm to construct the display stalls.

Interested participants are invited to prepare a CD of their work at submit it by October 31. The 40 considered most appropriate will be chosen by a panel of judges.

Saba added: "We advise artists to provide us with a comprehensive selection of their work so that it will be better for the judges to make their choices.

"Accepted applicants will be notified by mid to late November, via email, so they need to make sure to leave their email address clearly written on the CD cover."

Participants who are accepted will only be invited to sign up for a minimum of two weekends at a cost of BD100. Al Riwaq, which has been under renovation, is also currently working on launching its new artist's cafŽ on October 10.

Saba said: "We will have a 'Doodlefest' where guests can experiment with their doodling talents as well as enjoy great, healthy food whilst listening to Bahrain's emerging and underground DJs. We are planning to get everyone actively involved at the launch."

Doodlers can also submit their work on either a 26x26cm or 40x40cm background for display purposes and they will be placed on sale during the event with 50 per cent of the proceeds going to Al Riwaq.

Interested DJs are also invited to show off their skills at the event. Saba said: "The events are part of our main goal to support contemporary art practices and to encourage the creativity of young people."

For further details contact 17717441 or email on info@alriwaqartspace.com







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