23 January 2011

Opera Gallery Makes it Bahrain Debut with artistic creations worth over US$ 17 million

An exceptional collection of jeweled works designed by Spanish artist Salvador Dali will be on display for the first time in the world at the premises of the Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH) Fine Art Gallery, a 275 sqm exhibition space located at the West Atrium of the Harbour Mall.

Worth over US$ 4,000,000, Dali's surrealistic jeweled pieces are abundant in precious stones. These unique creations will be featured at the Opera Gallery exhibition that marks the inaugural event of the BFH Fine Art Gallery. The exhibition that will take place from January 28th to 2nd February, 2011, will be open to the public for free viewing from 10 am - 8pm, throughout the week.

Hosted under the patronage of the Minister of Culture, H.E. Shaikha Mai Bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, as part of a week of arts related events organized by the Ministry of Culture for the 37th Bahrain Annual Fine Art Exhibition, "Opera Gallery and Salvador Dali Awaken Your Imagination in Bahrain" will be open for an exclusive viewing for guests by invitation only on January 27th 2011.

Speaking on this occasion, Dr. Omar Al Mardi, Managing Director of BFH said, "It is matter of national pride to contribute to the art and cultural progress of the Kingdom. I would like to welcome all art enthusiasts not to miss out on this rare opportunity and make it a point to attend the Opera Gallery Exhibition."

Showcasing works by major artists such as Picasso, Renoir, Botero, Marc Quinn, Diego Masi and Romero Britto, the BFH Fine Art Gallery will present paintings worth over US$ 4,000,000 and bronze sculptures by Dali estimated at over US$ 9,500,000.

Opera Gallery Dubai has been playing an active role throughout the region showcasing works from their collection in exhibitions throughout the Middle East. This strategic initiative has allowed art lovers throughout the region the opportunity to view significant works of art that they may not otherwise have had access to.

"Our decision to unveil these Dali sculptures in Bahrain owes to our appreciation of Bahrain's unique position in the region as a country inherent of a longstanding interest in cultural and artistic initiatives," said Mr. Bertrand Epaud, General Manager, Opera Gallery Dubai.

BFH officials expressed their confidence that the Fine Art Gallery would assist a great deal in elevating the art scene in Bahrain by providing a unique platform for artists as well as art enthusiasts.

"Featuring significant works by modern and contemporary artists, the Fine Art Gallery invites all individuals with an interest in art, to view masterpieces in the heart of the Kingdom," continued Mr. Mardi.

The Gallery is elegantly designed and has a unique position as the transparent glass allows for panoramic views of the old city of Manama on one side, and the sea and magnificent views of the Bahrain Financial Harbour on the other; signifying both an artistic vision as well as a desire for progress.

-Ends-

About BFH
A fully integrated, master-planned development, the US$ 3 billion Bahrain Financial Harbour (BFH), is creating a complete financial city, a self contained community and reinforcing Bahrain's unique position as the financial capital of the Middle East. A first of its kind development in the region, BFH is a highly focused, committed and advanced financial environment spread over 380,000 square metres of prime seafront property in the centre of Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. Furthermore, it comprises 10 projects that distinctively combine business, leisure and residential components under one canopy. Phase I of the project 'The Financial Centre' which includes the Harbour Towers - Bahrain's tallest towers and the Harbour Mall.  The Financial Centre is operational and open for business.

Issued by prlinks on behalf of Bahrain Financial Harbour
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© Press Release 2011