Manama – Bahrain Foundation for Dialogue:
The Bahrain Foundation for Dialogue hosted renowned visual artist Abbas Al-Mousawi in a live session on its Instagram account (@bfd_bh) on the evening of Wednesday, February 26, 2025, marking the conclusion of the fourth season of the program #Bahraini_Imprints. The event was held with media sponsorship from Al-Ayam Newspaper and Al-Bilad Newspaper.
During the session, which was moderated by Ms. Faiza Al-Farsani, a member of the Bahrain Foundation for Dialogue, Abbas Al-Mousawi reflected on key moments from his artistic journey spanning over fifty years. He shared insights from his early beginnings in the “House of Peace” in the Al-Naim neighborhood to achieving international acclaim. Al-Mousawi also highlighted the profound influence of his father—Mr. Mohammed Saleh, a preacher, writer, and photographer—in shaping his artistic vision, along with the inspiration drawn from Bahrain’s environment, including the sea, palm trees, and traditional markets, which have all left a lasting imprint on his creative expression.
In a related context, Al-Mousawi emphasized the role of art in expressing identity and belonging, stating that a painting is not merely a blend of colors, but a living story—one that reflects human emotions and a deep connection to one’s roots. He explained that visual art has the power to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers, becoming a universal medium for understanding and bringing people closer together. He affirmed, “Every color carries a memory, every line tells a story, and a true artist is one who can make people feel these stories—without the need for word”
In another part of the discussion, Al-Mousawi addressed the transformations art is undergoing in the age of the digital revolution, speaking about the challenges posed by artificial intelligence to artists. While he acknowledged that modern technologies can serve as helpful tools in certain aspects, he stressed that “true art originates from the human soul, not from AI algorithms.” He emphasized that genuine emotion and feeling cannot be programmed or authentically replicated through digital means.
Artist Abbas Al-Mousawi concluded the session with a heartfelt message to future generations, urging them to uphold authentic values and strengthen family and community bonds. He said, “Art is our message—let us carry it forward with love and dedication, and let us preserve the ties that unite us as one nation.”
It is worth noting that the “Bahraini Imprints” program, organized by the Bahrain Foundation for Dialogue, aims to highlight the contributions of creative Bahraini figures across various fields. The program seeks to inspire new generations to continue the journey of giving and creativity with confidence and determination.
