Manama, Jan. 18 (BNA): The RAK Art Foundation has announced a collaboration between the Art Station, a cultural art space under its umbrella, and the Creative Industry Summit, the leading platform in the MENA region for promoting the creative economy.

This collaboration aims to empower and celebrate creativity while strengthening the art community in Bahrain. The partnership focuses on creating opportunities for connection and education in the creative industries. By joining forces, the Art Station and the Creative Industry Summit seek to honour talent, enhance the creative economy, and develop connections within the region’s vibrant creative communities.

Shaikh Rashid Al Khalifa, Founder of the RAK Art Foundation, elaborated on the importance of this collaboration, saying: "This partnership signifies a crucial step in adding value to the local artists in Bahrain. By collaborating with the Creative Industry Summit, we aim to enrich Bahrain's cultural landscape, empower local artists, and contribute to the growth of the creative and cultural industries."

He noted that this collaboration demonstrates Bahrain's commitment to developing creative industries. This includes initiatives implemented by the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), which aim to support these industries through training programmes, specialised courses, mentorship, and recruitment opportunities for national talent.

Mai Salama, Founding Partner of the Creative Industry Summit, expressed her enthusiasm about collaborating with Shaikh Rashid Al Khalifa, highlighting the partnership as a key step in empowering the creative sectors.

Salama emphasised that Bahrain is a leader in the Gulf’s creative economy, blending its rich heritage with innovation. As one of the first countries to establish a National Arts Council, Bahrain showcases its commitment through thriving art galleries, dynamic festivals, and investments in creative hubs.

The Creative Industry Summit is dedicated to empowering the creative economy and cultural industries and enabling stakeholders to advance them. The summit has championed creativity for over a decade through flagship events, award shows, and year-round activities.

H.K