Muscat: Oman’s fifth anniversary celebrations of its Renewed Renaissance Day witnessed a historic event featuring a celebrated, internationally known, artist who embarked on to create a sizable painting in a painting marathon in a bid to enter the Guinness Book of World Records.
Iranian artist Mahnoush Abbasgholy (Mia), in her individual ‘paint-athon’, has kicksrarted on Wednesday to paint a 40-metres (40mts x 120cms) artwork in seven days, hoping to paint over 15 hours a day, completing the painting in over 100 hours, which when completed will help her enter into the Guinness Book of World Records.
The opening ceremony was held under the auspices of Sayyid Khalid bin Hamed al Busaidi, chairman of Sabco group of companies and Shaikh Ahmed bin Suwaidan al Balushi, chairman of Al Balushi Investments.
This ground-breaking live, seven-days’ event, titled ‘Sparkles of Oman’, is being held at Al Bandar lawn area of Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah from January 15 to 21.
Residents of Oman are invited to witness this historic event, which is set to place the Sultanate of Oman on the list of world records.
Sparkling tribute to Oman
The theme of the ‘Sparkles of Oman’ painting will capture Oman’s mesmerising landscapes, city lights, beaches, mountains and will depict a glowing interpretation of Omani landscape, culture and heritage. “It will be a vibrant journey through the Sultanate’s breath-taking scenery using a medium of contemporary art, weaving gold and silver leaf into the panoramas, adding texture and vibrant colours,” Abbasgholy explained. “It will be a sparkling tribute to Oman through art,” she added.
The finished painting will later be auctioned off to benefit the non-governmental organisation, 'Children First' Association.
The closing ceremony, on January 22 at 5.30pm onwards, will be held under the auspices of Her Highness Dr Mona bint Fahad al Said, Assistant Bice Vhancellor – external cooperation – Sultan Qaboos University and the chairperson of Children First Association and Shaikh Ahmed bin Suwaidan al Balushi.
20 years of hospitality
This inspiring art-for-charity event is hosted at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah. The resort along with Shangri-La Al Husn marks their 20 years of exceptional hospitality in the Sultanate of Oman.
Artist Abbasgholy’s painting will be auctioned off to benefit the Children First Association, embodying Shangri-La’s ongoing commitment to meaningful community engagement, a top hotel official commented.
“It is such an honour to host an event that contributes to the community, with proceeds from the painting’s auction going to Children First Association,” Philippe Kronberg, the Resort’s general manager, said.
“We are thrilled to support this Guinness World Record attempt and to kick off our 20th anniversary celebrations with an initiative that not only inspires but also gives back to the community. Shangri-La has always been at the heart of Oman’s vibrant cultural and social events, and we are proud to begin the year with a cause that brings joy and hope to children,” Kronberg added.
The event is being managed by Black & White Media.
Sponsors for the event include OQEP, Taageer Finance and Dr Marjan Cosmetic & Hygienic Manufacturing LLC.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
