Muscat: The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth, in collaboration with the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC), officially inaugurated the third edition of Muscat Art, under the esteemed patronage of Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, on Monday at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The Muscat Art event is scheduled to be open from 2 pm – 12 am daily until the 31st of October.
The 2024 edition promises to feature over 250 local and international artists from more than 10 participating countries, including Hungary, Iran, Yemen, Palestine, Lebanon, India, the United Kingdom, Sudan, Germany, and others. With an impressive 1500 pieces of art on display, ranging from paintings to sculptures, this three-day art fair is anticipated to attract over 10,000 visitors.
A particular emphasis has been placed on both emerging and established local artists, thanks to the support of art curators and renowned artists Alia Al Farsi and Hassan Meer. Their backing has facilitated the introduction of new local and international talents, ensuring a diverse participation.
The local production and photography company Bella Luna Productions has pledged its sponsorship for this event, offering support to the OCEC in the promotion of Muscat Art.
During Muscat Art, attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with artists, gaining deeper insights into their creative passions and inspirations. Participants are also invited to partake in interactive workshops and activities, broadening their understanding of the arts.
This edition also heralds the launch of the Muscat Art Walls project, which invites local artists and photographers to exhibit their works at the OCEC on a long-term basis. The initiative is designed to elevate local talent and promote it on an international stage, in line with broader objectives to bolster the local art community. Artists are encouraged to register, with selected works being included in the OCEC’s permanent art collection.
Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth for Culture, Said bin Sultan Al Busaidi, remarked, "This event stands as a significant artistic program in the cultural calendar of Oman. We are delighted to collaborate with the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre in the organization of this event, aiming to enhance cultural awareness and underscore the significance of fine arts through workshops and community activities. We are hopeful that this event will continue to thrive as a platform for the exploration and exhibition of various forms of creativity."
In a statement regarding the event, Eng. Said Al Shanfari, the esteemed CEO of the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, articulated, "Through the lens of Muscat Art, our objective is to foster a cultural endeavor that leaves a profound mark on our nation. This initiative is designed to unite communities, highlight our rich cultural heritage and traditions, and welcome the artistic currents that define Oman in the contemporary era."
The Muscat Art Exhibition is poised to elevate cultural consciousness, safeguard the legacy of high-quality arts, and secure a place of prominence in the regional art landscape. This event has seen a steady increase in both exhibitors and attendees annually, with a goal to establish itself as a premier art showcase in the area. Beyond its role as a platform for art exhibitions, it is instrumental in enriching Oman's cultural milieu by honoring the nation's vibrant talents. This year's showcase promises to include informative lectures and workshops led by experts on various art-related subjects. Attendees are in for a treat with sculpture workshops, live musical performances, and a variety of entertainment options throughout the duration of the event.
For further details, please visit the Muscat Art website or follow us on Instagram.
