HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa issued a royal decree on the formation of the National Council for the Arts, announcing that the council would
be chaired by H.E. Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, artist, patron, and a steadfast advocate for arts and cultural initiatives in the Kingdom.
“I am indebted to HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and all who have supported me on this journey. I am honored to assume such a role, as chair of a council that I believe has the potential to advance the creative arts in Bahrain and to encourage the art scene in a country that has such a rich culture and history. Art is a tool for change and societal progress, and I am proud of the Kingdom Bahrain for recognizing this and taking the necessary steps to foster its development,” said H.E. Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chairman of the National Council for Arts, on his appointment.
A practicing artist from a young age, H.E. Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa has long supported cultural activities and arts initiatives since the formation of the Bahrain Arts Society in 1983, which he spearheaded. Since then, he has been an advocate for the arts, arts education and cultural initiatives, regularly expressing his awareness of the importance of this and demonstrating his support for emerging artists in the kingdom and wider region. Recently, he opened his international collection of art to the public for viewing by appointment, as part of the RAK Art Foundation, one that endeavors to support arts activities through workshops, exhibitions and a residency program.
“I look forward to consulting with members of my council as well as well as the wider art community in Bahrain and aim to encourage cooperation and collaboration between the numerous organizations and individuals that make up this vibrant artistic community,” said H.E. Shaikh Rashid.
