Held on the 5th and 6th of December, 2019, at Al Bahja Hall, Qurum, Oman’s Affordable Art Show showcased the artworks of over 30 artists between the ages of 25 and 65, all priced under OMR 150. The art fair gave local and international artists an opportunity to exhibit their work in front of Oman’s art-loving audience and attracted many art lovers as they flocked to interact with the artists, learn about their work, participate in the workshops and collect stunning, one-of-a-kind art pieces.
Affordable art as a concept has been embraced worldwide, for art was always known to be an elite indulgence, expensive and inaccessible to lower stratas of society. The concept of smaller pieces of art, priced at affordable rates has gained popularity over the years and has helped bridge the gap between the artist and the consumer, creating an avenue of interaction, conversation and discussion. Talking about the concept of Oman’s Affordable Art Show, the woman behind the event, Radhika Hamlai said, “People are very skeptical to come to big art events, and bear in mind the thought that art is only expensive. So, I wanted to create a platform where the artists can create special pieces for showcasing at reasonable prices.”
The 2019 edition of Oman’s Affordable Art Show spanned across two days that were jam-packed with activities for attendees. Apart from having the opportunity to view and collect art and interact with the artists, the fair also hosted screenings of two art films – ‘The Man Who Stole Banksy’ and ‘Sky Ladder’. There were four workshops held – a line drawing workshop that taught one to develop images with a single unbroken line; a workshop on papercutting inspired by old arabesque geometric patterns; a Giacometti sculpture making workshop for kids; and an origami workshop. Pleased with the response to the sessions, Radhika commented “The workshops were very successful and we found that people are very keen to learn. We will organise more than six workshops next year!”
This year, Oman’s Affordable Art Show also had a charity initiative. There were paint-your-own fibreglass turtles sold at the fair, the proceeds of which went to the Environmental Society of Oman. There were even customised tote book bags on sale, with all proceeds going to the ‘Let’s Read Programme’. The charity effort was held with the intention of creating awareness about caring for the environment and about the joys and benefits of reading.
The art scene in Oman has always been one to look forward to for art lovers, and in recent years it has been flourishing. Not only are the new gallery openings a sign of development and growth in the industry, but also the variety of art styles, mediums and the response from the general public are key indicators of how Oman’s art scene is valued and cherished.
Oman’s Affordable Art Show was all about communication and creating dialogue between art lovers and artists. Having it conducted at Al Bahja Hall at The Jungle Restaurant and near Qurum Natural Park meant it was centrally placed and accessible to all to walk-in, view different art styles and the use of different mediums, discuss with the artists, learn and enjoy. Oman’s Affordable Art Show will be back in December 2020!
