Premier opens expo, stresses artists' patriotic role

Manama, Jan. 17 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has stressed that art is a comprehensive message that Bahraini artists should use as a means to serve their country politically, intellectually and culturally. Art has become a means to communicate with the world, and we have to adapt it to highlight the kingdom's civilisational image and development and economic progress, he said, noting that through high-value paintings, the world can be informed about the political, economic and social progress witnessed by Bahrain. HRH the Prime Minister urged to invest in art in a way that serves the national economy, within a comprehensive investment that targets culture. "Bahraini fine artists boast a renewed creativity that they have passed from one generation to another, and have managed to enrich the national artistic memory with distinguished words that stand witness to this country's authenticity and civilisation," HRH Premier said, affirming that the noble message of art has a strong impact in improving public taste to focus on areas of beauty, goodness and giving in every field. HRH Premier made the statement while opening at the Bahrain National Museum today the 43rd edition of the Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition. The Premier cut the ribbons and declared the expo open. He then toured its pavilions and was informed about the displayed paintings and artistic works. He lauded and admired the Bahraini artists' masterpieces, experiences and creative techniques, and asserted that this year's edition maintained its glamour and showcased the creativity of Bahraini artists HRH the Prime Minister stressed that over the years, the Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition has become a well-recognised specialised regional and international event, adding that the increasing number of participating artists indicates the expo's outstanding success and prestigious reputation, in terms of preparation and organisation. "The fine art movement in Bahrain is characterised by its diverse trends and rich views which are based on artistic culture and expressive meanings that reflect reality and go beyond it with the aesthetic touches," HRH Premier said. He affirmed the government's support to the cultural and artistic activities, and care for the gifted artists are in line with its belief in the importance of culture and arts in expressing the advancement of societies and refining the public taste, as well as in bringing up generations that denounce all forms of ugliness and distortion. HRH the Prime Minister expressed thanks and appreciation to the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) President, Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, and Honorary President of the Bahrain Arts Society Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, for their distinguished efforts to prepare for and organise the 43rd edition of the expo, and keenness to motivate artistic creativity. HRH Premier then wrote a statement in the Expo's record book in which he expressed delight at attending and opening the 43rd Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition, noting that the expo is a renewed opportunity for Bahraini artists to showcase their creativity and aesthetic drive. HRH Premier affirmed that every edition of the Bahrain Fine Arts Expo deepens Bahrain's rich artistic and cultural experience, authenticity, civilisation, rich heritage and diverse artistic schools in which artistic creativity blends tradition and modernity. Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa extended sincere thanks and appreciation to HRH Premier for his constant patronage of the Expo over the past 43 years, noting that the Premier's kind gesture provided support to artists and reflects the kingdom's pride in their artistic works and creativity. She voiced pride in the expo's keenness to be a platform for showcasing distinguished art works of Bahraini and expatriate artists, noting that art is a global language that unites all. She asserted that this year's edition, themed "If Our Monuments Could Speak" is held at the National Theatre whose establishment reflects the sound vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. This annual event tells the stories of Bahraini artists whom we want to be as ambassadors to their country as they project the kingdom's identity and deep history through their artistic work. Honorary President of the Bahrain Arts Society Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa extended heartfelt thanks and appreciation to HRH the Prime Minister for his annual patronage of the Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition. He stressed that HRH Premier's patronage and support had encouraged Bahraini artists to pave the way for their creativity, and enabled them to reach the world.