40 February 2013 www.bahrainthismonth.com happeningsartsculture One of the most sought-after Arab painters of his generation comes to town for a worthy initiative, offering us an opportunity for a unique insight into his world. In Support of World Cancer Day, Rafa Nasiri showcases his latest works under the title ‘Being in the Moment’. The initiative between the Bahrain Cancer Society (BCS) and the Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH) hopes to raise funds for charity in support of those afflicted by cancer. “This event is one in a series organised by the BCS over the month of February and part of the society’s continuous efforts to increase cancer awareness in the Kingdom,” says Dr Abdul Rahman Fakhro, president of the BCS. “Our aim is to both educate local residents about the risks of cancer and at the same time to raise funds to support our activities. World Cancer Day allows the entire world to unite in the fight against this global disease; it encourages the public to take a stand and to reduce premature deaths through a proactive approach to maintaining your health.” The man behind the canvas Rafa, a contemporary Iraqi painter, is known for his ‘cosmicscapes’ where he merges abstraction with Arabic calligraphy and other elements of his culture. The printmaker is well-known in both the Arab world and on the international stage for his rich artworks and distinctive style. During the last decade, his pieces have been inspired by poetry as varied as that of Al-Mutanabbi, Mahmoud Darwish and Etel Adnan. This fascination, coupled with a preoccupation with the element of time, has produced works that celebrate beauty, love and his homeland. “We are privileged to have the opportunity to exhibit the work of Rafa Nasiri, who is definitely one of the most celebrated in the Arab world and whose work has as much relevance today as it did years ago,” says Omar Al Mardi, BFH managing director. Since 1963, Rafa has held over 33 solo exhibitions in the Middle East, Europe and the Far East and has participated in numerous group exhibitions and international festivals. Among his many achievements over the years are a first prize at the Baghdad International Festival and an honour prize at the 4th International Graphics Biennale in Norway. He has also secured awards from the International Painting Exhibition in France and the International Summer Academy in Austria. The artist studied painting in Iraq and then went on to study graphic art in China and Portugal. Between 1974 and 2001 he worked at several professional studios in Salzburg, London, Assela, Baghdad and Amman. He has also taught painting, graphic design and art in Iraq, Jordan and Bahrain, in addition to giving lectures on his unique style around the world. E Call 17 233-080. When? February 1-15 Event? Art exhibition Venue? Albareh Art Gallery Hussein Madi showcases his latest sculptures and prints. E Call 17 717-707. When? February 1-26 Event? Art exhibition Venue? Al Riwaq Art Gallery Lulwa Al Homoud exhibits her Islamic-themed artworks. E Call 17 717-441. When? February 1-28 Event? Fine art exhibition Venue? Bahrain National Museum Gear up for the latest edition of the Bahrain Fine Arts Exhibition. E Call 17 298-811. When? February 2-28 Event? Art exhibition Venue? Naqsh Gallery Jawad Qadi uses horizons as the inspiration for his latest collection. E Call 17 582-020. When? February 2-28 Event? Art exhibition Venue? World Beat Café A vibrant collection of Shahnaz Fayaz’s paintings is on show. E Call 17 612-576. When? February 4-28 Event? Art exhibition Venue? BFH Fine Art Gallery Rafa Nasiri collaborates with the Bahrain Cancer Society for charity. E Call 17 233-080. When? February 10-23 Event? Photo exhibition Venue? Shaikh Ebrahim Centre for Culture and Research Enjoy collages and montages from 11 local and regional artists. E Call 17 322-549. Art for a Cause When? February 4-28 | Event? Art exhibition | Venue? BFH Fine Art Gallery
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