Perle Magazine - Spring 2018 Perle Magazine - Spring 2018 | Page 23

1990s. Block 338 was only known
as Adliya at the time, and a handful of
restaurants surrounded the previously
residential area. Adliya’s scenery was
comprised mostly of houses from Bahrain’s
Contemporary Era during the 1950’s and
1960s, reminiscent of the development
Bahrain had seen throughout the years
from the Classical Era, and started to
move towards a more modern living style
where the houses were designed using
international influences. An important part
of Bahrain’s history as well, art has always
played an eminent role in shaping Bahrain’s
image, and seeing its importance, a group
of 84 artists approached the government
to form the Bahrain Arts Society in 1983,
and renowned artists of Bahrain have
elevated Bahrain’s art presence across the
globe. Art is one of the main components
that has literally defined Bahrain’s cultural
image from the beginning of time, from the
pottery that stems all the way to the Dilmun
era, to the unique architecture, and fine
arts ranging over a wide artistic spectrum.
Today Bahrain - Adliya in particular - is
recognized for not only showcasing the
works of existing famous artists, but also
provides platforms for budding artists to
display their creativity. Not just within the
confines of an art gallery, but throughout
the entirety of the area, making the area a
prominent hub for the beautiful amalgam
of art, food, and culture - a reputation
predominantly set by the efforts of Bayan
Kanoo and Al Riwaq Art Space. As the
gallery celebrated 20 years in 2018, it
also bid adieu to its loving family, leaving
behind a rich legacy of art in all its form,
that truly helped transform Adliya into its
modern-day version, ‘Block 338’.
SPRING 2018
Perle
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