An Artistic Journey Across the Gulf: Al-Anoud and Omaima Explore Gulf Art
I am Al-Anoud from Kuwait, and my friend Omaima is from Bahrain. We met in Bahrain during a clay sculpting workshop, where we discovered our shared passion for art. From there, we decided to embark on a unique journey across the Gulf countries to explore the artistic scene in each nation.
Bahrain: The Beginning and Inspiration
Our journey began in Manama, the capital of Bahrain, where we participated in an art workshop that showcased our sculpting talents. With its rich cultural history, Bahrain was the perfect starting point for our artistic adventure. We visited art galleries and museums that reflect the island’s heritage and its modern artistic development.
Kuwait: National Pride and Creativity
After Bahrain, I returned to Kuwait with a new idea inspired by the National Day celebrations in February. Previously, I had worn a red dress for Bahrain’s National Day, but this time, I decided to design a dress inspired by my country’s flag as a way to express my pride in my Kuwaiti identity while attending cultural and artistic events.
Saudi Arabia: Cultural Diversity (Current Destination)
From Kuwait, Omaima and I traveled to Riyadh, where Saudi Arabia is experiencing a remarkable cultural and artistic renaissance. The event started yesterday, and we are now in the heart of the Saudi art scene, exploring museums and exhibitions that showcase the country’s cultural and artistic diversity. We visited the National Museum in Riyadh and discovered the works of talented Saudi artists. We also participated in art workshops that highlight the Kingdom’s rich heritage and traditions.
Upcoming Destinations: UAE, Qatar, and Oman
After completing our journey in Saudi Arabia, we will head to Abu Dhabi to explore contemporary art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sharjah Art District. Next, we will travel to Doha to experience the fusion of heritage and modernity at the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar. Finally, we will conclude our journey in Muscat, where we will immerse ourselves in Oman’s natural beauty and artistic culture, visiting museums and traditional markets filled with handcrafted artwork.
This journey is more than just an exploration of art—it is an experience that reflects our shared Gulf identity. At each stop, I wear my dress inspired by the Kuwaiti flag, carrying my passion for art with me, discovering how each Gulf country expresses its artistic identity in its own unique way.
