Bahrain's Rashid Al Khalifa Art Foundation Opens to Public

Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, a member of the Bahraini royal family, artist, and collector, has opened his eponymous foundation in Riffa. The foundation, housed in his restored birthplace, displays works from his collection of modern and contemporary art, alongside his own pieces. Public tours began in 2020 by appointment, three days a week. Yasmin Sharabi, artist and director, explains the foundation's mission: to support the creative community in Bahrain and the Middle East through non-profit projects, collaborations, and international partnerships. The foundation plans educational programs, workshops, artist residencies, and scholarships. Sharabi notes that Bahrain lacks art institutions like museums or galleries, forcing artists to produce saleable work or move abroad. Women play a strong role in the art scene, with figures like Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Bayan Kanoo, and Hayfa Al Jishi leading cultural spaces. The foundation collaborates with the Bahrain National Arts Council and plans exhibitions locally and abroad.