In The Open, the first major display in London of contemporary art from the Kingdom of Bahrain, will take place in London during it's "Shubbak Festival" from the 22nd of June- 7th of July. A result of a collaboration by independent curator Latifa Al Khalifa, Edge of Arabia and the Shubbak Festival itself, In The Open presents artwork from a fascinating group of established and emerging artists who call Bahrain their home.
In The Open explores a new paradigm of artistic expression in Bahrain which allows audiences a glimpse of the history, politics and culture of the country; Al Khalifa explains, “Curatorially, the title refers to bringing into the open the artists’ distinctive and intimate interpretations of contemporary life in such a diverse and complex society.”
Highlights of In The Open include: Jenine Sharabi’s ‘Public Displays of Affection’ series which through whimsy and charming simplicity portrays the unseen affections felt by couples in the Middle East; Hasan Hujairi’s interactive sound sculpture; Camille Zakharia’s photo-collages which encapsulate place, identity, and what it means to belong; and a photographic mural depicting ongoing conversations spread over Bahrain’s walls by Ghada Khunji.
Accompanying the show will be a public programme including regular tours led by the curator and the artists. At the 27 June Private View, Latifa Al-Khalifa will discuss life in Bahrain through conversation with participating artists Hasan Hujairi and Ghada Khunji.
PRIVATE VIEW: Thursday 27 June 2013, 6 – 9pm
CURATOR & ARTIST TALK: Thursday 27 June 2013, 7pm
EXHIBITION: 28 June – 27 July 2013.
(Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm. Closed Mondays.)
LOCATION: Edge of Arabia Testbed, 40 Elcho Street, SW11 4AU
Admission is Free
For more information visit www.edgeofarabia.com
