Muttrah: HH Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham al Said presided over the launch of the “Raneen Art” festival today. The 10-day event, organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, seeks to highlight some sites in the ancient Wilayat of Muttrah through visual and audio arts displays. The festival benefits from the exceptional landmarks of Muttrah, known for its ancient roads, alleys, and abodes, making it a tourist hotspot where traditional and modern art converge.

According to Oman News Agency, the event symbolizes an embodiment of architecture and heritage, underscoring Muttrah’s reputation as one of Oman’s top commercial port cities. More than 25 artists from Oman and abroad are participating, focusing on three sites adjoining Muttrah Police Station: ‘Beit Al Khouri’, ‘Beit Al Khunji’, and Muttrah Fort. HH Sayyida Tania Al Said contributed a mural titled ‘Unity in Diversity’, which celebrates the cultural heritage of the Omani community and represents Oman’s commitment to tolerance and coexistence.

An o
utstanding contribution is made by artist Clive Gracey with a series of 10 large-scale photographs depicting the interiors of forgotten and abandoned houses in Muttrah and other locations in Oman. The gallery offers insights into the lives of past inhabitants and evokes memories of a different era. Artist Houriya Al Harrasi’s ‘Invisible Fragments’ tableau vivant uses plates and drawing eyes to express hidden memories. Meanwhile, Marwa Al Bahrani’s “The Changing Colours of Time” artwork features acrylic glass and shimmering paper to create a spectrum of changing colours.

Additionally, Rawan Al Mahrouqi’s ‘Studio Makan’ offers an innovative sphere that plays a pivotal role in Muttrah’s contemporary art scene, providing a space for cultural events, art talks, and collaborative projects. Studio Makan’s activities, including exhibitions, workshops, and art sessions, contribute significantly to the vibrant art community in Muttrah.