His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa today deputised Deputy Premier, HH Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, to open the 44th Bahrain Fine Art Exhibition, organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) at the tent it had set next to Arad Fort as part of the events accompanying "Muharraq as Capital of Islamic Culture 2018".

Fifty three artists are taking part in the expo with various artworks.
Upon arrival, the deputy premier was welcomed by BACA President, Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Bahrain Arts Society Honorary President, Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, ministers, senior state officials, press and media figures, businessmen, intellectuals and artists.
HH Shaikh Ali cut the ribbons and declared the expo open. He then toured its pavilions and was informed about the displayed paintings and artistic works. He lauded the artists' artwork, experiences and creative techniques in painting, photography, installation, sculpture and others.
The deputy premier conveyed greetings from HRH the Prime Minister to the organisers and participants, as well as his wishes of further success.
He highlighted the importance of art in enhancing social awareness and enlightening its members, stressing the need to activate the role of the artistic message in spreading optimism and promoting values aimed at advancing society.
HH Shaikh Ali affirmed Bahrain’s deep pride in its artists who have enriched the artistic and cultural scene through their dedication and works which have achieved international levels and contributed to establishing multiple artistic schools that reflect Bahrain’s rich cultural and civilisational heritage.
“The regional and international successes of the Bahraini fine art movement prove the creativity of Bahraini artists who have embraced the various international artistic trends and schools,” he said.
He stressed that over the years, the Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition has become a well-recognised specialised regional and international event that has consolidated Bahrain’s cultural and artistic status in the region, adding that the increasing number of participating artists indicates the expo's outstanding success and prestigious reputation, in terms of preparation and organisation.
The deputy premier expressed thanks and appreciation to BACA President and staff for their distinguished efforts to prepare for and organise the 44th edition of the expo, and keenness to motivate artistic creativity.
Shaikha Mai extended sincere thanks and gratitude to HRH Premier for his unwavering support for the fine art movement in the kingdom, constant keenness to patronise the annual expo, and keenness to put in place all success and creativity requirements for Bahraini artists.
She pointed out that the Annual Bahrain Fine Art Exhibition is the first in a series of year-long cultural events and programmes to be held on the sidelines of "Muharraq as Capital of Islamic Culture 2018".
“Our belief in our creative artists increases year after year. Visitors from the Arab and Islamic countries will come to our city and discover the beautiful side of our nations, such bright image of which we proud and are keen to project to the world,” she said.
She underlined that art is a universal human discourse and a trans-border language through which the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities is building bridges of communication with the peoples and civilisations.

Source: BNA