Manama's vibrant art scene blends tradition and innovation, showcasing local and international artistic talent across a range of inspiring venues.
For a country of its size, Bahrain's art scene is impressively vibrant. Through a mix of art fairs and cutting-edge galleries, this island nation is not only fulfilling its mission to bring the global art community to its shores but is also showcasing the talent of Bahraini artists on the world stage. For art enthusiasts in Manama, this means that there's plenty to explore, from renowned museums and galleries to the highly anticipated Bahrain Museum of Contemporary Art, a 10,000-square-metre masterpiece designed by the late Zaha Hadid. Once open, this new cultural hub will showcase the works of local, regional and global artists.
Epicentre of art
Bahrain National Museum
Nestled on the water's edge, the Bahrain National Museum is Manama's premier hub for art and culture. In 1988, it became one of the first museums to open in the island nation – and in the region – and it remains a cultural landmark to this day. With its striking travertine marble façade and dramatic courtyard, the museum is a visual marvel, but the treasures within far surpass its exterior. Its rich inventory, which spans 6,000 years of Bahrain's history, sits alongside a permanent collection of contemporary works from local artists. Adjacent to the museum, the Art Centre and Cultural Hall also host seasonal exhibitions and concerts throughout the year.
The museum is also home to the annual Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition, which celebrated its 50th edition this year. This event continues to support local artists, propelling them onto the international stage and exemplifying Bahrain’s commitment to cultural enrichment.
Custodians of heritage
Beit Al Quran
Art enthusiasts seeking a blend of creativity and history will find Beit Al Quran a captivating destination. Set in a structure beautifully adorned with Arabic script, it boasts an impressive collection of Quranic manuscripts dating back to the seventh century, alongside a library of over 50,000 books in Arabic, English and French, primarily focused on Islamic heritage. The venue also hosts a variety of art exhibitions throughout the year, making it a vibrant cultural hub.
La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art
Equally captivating is the La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art, a stunning 150-year-old example of authentic Bahraini architecture that continues to stand proudly today. The centre features several contemporary art galleries, regularly exhibiting the works of both regional and international artists, making it a dynamic space for modern artistic expression.
Although the Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre is not a traditional art gallery, it serves as a living museum dedicated to local craftsmanship. Visitors can witness Bahraini craftswomen, skilled in age-old traditions, demonstrating techniques such as pottery making, cloth and basket weaving as well as woodworking. These workshops are a remarkable effort to preserve these valuable skills for future generations.
Inspiring spaces
Bin Matar House
Irrespective of one's artistic inclinations, Manama’s creative scene has something for everyone. At the Bin Matar House, operated by the Sheikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture and Research, visitors will find exhibitions featuring both local and international artists throughout the year, supported by a rich programme of talks, workshops and lectures.
Additionally, Albareh Art Gallery has been a key venue for regional and international contemporary art since 1998, offering a platform for emerging talents and hosting a variety of exhibitions and international art fairs. There's also Al Riwaq Art Space, which is known for its dynamic year-round exhibition schedule and community workshops. The hub plays a crucial role in promoting local art and providing educational programmes for visitors.
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