Twenty Bahraini artists will showcase their culture and creativity at the Riffa Views Bahrain International Garden Show 2008 later this month.

They have been chosen to demonstrate their unique arts and crafts at the 600-metre square Riffa Views suq-style stand.

The garden show is being held from February 22 to 24 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre.

It is held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad and supported by the King's wife and chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Women, Her Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.

The Riffa Views' stand will feature demonstrations of carpet weaving, pottery, basket weaving, jewellery making, abaya embroidery, metal sculpting and calligraphy.

Further interactive entertainment will be provided by henna and portrait artists.

There will also be an opportunity to discover a pearl by opening freshly caught clamshells.

'Many of the local craftsmen work at the Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre, while others run independent businesses or simply follow their art as a hobby,' said Riffa Views chief executive officer Richard Browning.

'All of these talented artists have a great passion for what they do.

'Riffa Views wants to give them the recognition they deserve and the opportunity to work with us to present a display that I am confident will be a very special feature of this year's garden show, and one that will be of great interest to the visiting public.'

The stand will also feature a Riffa Views sculpture that has been created by Bahrain sculptor Ali Al Mahmeed.

Visitors will be able to see the exhibit and track its creation through a photographic record from its conception and design until it is made.

Mr Al Mahmeed's completed work will be a focal point for the Riffa Views development project and it will grace the entrance to Riffa Views Signature Estates.

The fusion of local art and craft has received further support from Al Jasra Handicraft Centre's head Shaikha Wafa bint Saif Al Khalifa, who has worked closely with Riffa Views to ensure the participation of such a superb mix of skilled artists.

One of the artists involved in the project is Mariam Wadiee, who designs intricately embroidered abayas for a select clientele. 'When I was asked to take part in the exhibition, I had absolutely no hesitation,' she said.

 'The whole idea of bringing our work to the public in such a fun and novel way appeals to me, as not only will I have the chance to share my designs with a whole new audience, but I will also have the privilege to share the experience with such a talented group of artisans.'

Several translators and guides will be on hand at the event to explain more about the artists and their work. Visitors will also be able to buy any of the items on display or those being created before their eyes.-TradeArabia News Service