Bahrain's Young Artistic Talents Take Center Stage at Athar for International Women’s Day 2023

For International Women’s Day 2023, the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) presented a digital art exhibition in Bahrain showcasing the works of young Bahraini artists, in partnership with UN Women Regional Office for the Arab States. The event provided a platform for Bahrain's talented youth to display their paintings, highlighting the vibrancy and diversity of the country's art scene. The exhibition was held at Athar Monument venue; a symbol of Bahrain’s deep respect for women, and was attended by representatives of the Government, private sector, civil society, and the UN in Bahrain. The young artists and innovators who participated in the exhibition were also present.

The event theme was aligned with the concurrent 67th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), the largest annual United Nations gathering on equal opportunities, gender equality, and women's empowerment. This year the CSW focused on innovation, technological change, and education in the digital age to promote action towards closing gender gaps in these areas.

In her speech, HE Hala Al-Ansari, Secretary-General of the SCW, highlighted that the Youth Committee of the Supreme Council for Women proposed the idea of a digital art exhibition that would highlight the innovative use of modern technology in the realm of digital arts, explore the creative potential that technology presents, and address key questions about the role of digital art in the advancement of artistic talent. Additionally, the event aimed to examine the future trajectory of this art form as an alternative to traditional painting and whether this creative sphere is inclusive and accessible to all. In his remarks, the UN Resident Coordinator in Bahrain, Khaled El Mekwad, emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls through a gender-responsive approach to innovation and technology.

Three winning artists were announced, with Ahmed Fouad taking first place, Lina Al-Ayoobi in second, and Tamador Al-Fahal in third, receiving awards generously provided by Zain Bahrain. The competition saw a high level of quality among the seven artists, with each presenting three digital paintings that reflected the career of giving and excellence of Bahraini women, with a strong emphasis on women's achievements and gender balance. Each of these artists presented three computer-based digital paintings, some of which used techniques such as artificial intelligence and non-replaceable assets "NFTs”.

The exhibition featured a wide range of paintings, each telling a unique story of Bahrain's rich cultural heritage. The young artists drew inspiration from their country's traditions, landscapes and architecture, infusing their works with fresh and youthful energy, each telling a unique story of Bahrain's rich cultural tapestry. Digital artworks by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al-Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King President of the Supreme Council for Women, were also featured.