MUSCAT, Sept 28 The vibrant colours of the 'Ishtar' exhibition's participating artists came together to craft paintings that delve into real-life experiences, transforming art into a medium for powerful messages.
The exhibition featured 40 artists from four different countries, fostering artistic exchange between Omani and Arab artists and allowing them to share their unique creative journeys.
Inaugurated at the Omani Society for Fine Arts under the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth, the '21st International Ishtar Exhibition for Fine Arts' was organised in collaboration with the Iraqi Embassy in Muscat and the Ishtar Foundation for Culture and Arts.
This highly anticipated event attracted a diverse audience of art lovers eager to explore the exceptional pieces on display from artists representing Oman, Iraq, Palestine, and Jordan.
The exhibition showcased a wide range of 40 pieces, including paintings and sculptures, reflecting various artistic influences and experiences. Some works were inspired by Cubism and Realistic Cubism, while others bore traces of Impressionism and Expressionism, utilising vivid and abstract colours to convey emotions. Surreal artworks that blended fantasy with reality also graced the exhibition, capturing the audience's imagination.
With a mission to promote cultural and artistic exchange across Arab nations, the exhibition emphasised the unifying power of art in spreading peace and love. It also sought to support emerging talents by providing them with a platform to showcase their skills.
One standout participant was Iraqi artist Zahraa al Tai, whose painting celebrated the strength of Iraqi women by depicting Zainab Bahrani, an archaeologist and curator at the New York Museum. The artwork presented a powerful image of the global influence of Iraqi women, conveyed through the universal language of art.
Omani visual artist Saeed al Alawi contributed a piece inspired by Oman's cultural heritage. His work, titled ‘The Cycle,’ revived memories of an old traditional game where children played with bicycle tires.
Al Alawi's piece beautifully blended tradition with modern artistic techniques, reflecting the global evolution of art while staying rooted in Omani identity. He emphasized that Omani artists strive to craft works that resonate globally while preserving their distinct heritage.
Artist Hamida Abdul Redha, another participant, praised Oman's creative atmosphere and its public's deep connection to fine arts. Through her painting, she illustrated the transformative power of a woman's artistic touch, demonstrating that women can turn any subject into a work of beauty and precision. Hamida highlighted that every artist has a unique style that helps convey the essence of their homeland while delivering a universal message.
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