Sunday, February 16, 2025 | Sha'ban 16, 1446 H
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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

Omani innovation nurtures aspiring creators and inventors

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In a rapidly evolving world where untapped talent and groundbreaking ideas abound, one initiative is shining brightly for aspiring creators and inventors across the globe. Established in 2023, the Talent and Innovation Company is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to nurturing and supporting innovative minds from diverse backgrounds, becoming a beacon of hope in the region and beyond.


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At the heart of this dynamic organisation lies Talinko, an innovative digital incubator designed to democratise creativity. Eng. Ahmed Al Ghafri, the visionary CEO of the Talents and Innovations Company, passionately states, “What sets us apart is our commitment to diversity. Our digital incubator connects talented individuals across various fields with global experts and mentors who provide invaluable feedback and guidance, helping them to refine their projects into sustainable realities.”


Since its inception, the Talent and Innovation Company has made remarkable strides, attracting over 23,000 participants and nearly two million visitors from around the world. This initiative has crafted a vibrant network of innovators, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas flourish and cultures intertwine.


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Globally, the art world is undergoing a remarkable transformation, fueled by technological advancements that are empowering artists and reshaping how art is created, shared, and experienced. One of the most significant developments has been the rise of digital art platforms that support non-fungible tokens (NFTs), revolutionizing art collection and valuation. These platforms allow artists to connect directly with global collectors, eliminating traditional intermediaries. A striking example is the NFT marketplace OpenSea, where digital artist Beeple sold his work "Everydays: The First 5000 Days" for an astounding $69 million at Christie’s auction in March 2021, underscoring the potential of digital innovation within the art market.


Moreover, innovations in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are enhancing the audience's experience of art. Projects like Google Arts & Culture invite users to explore celebrated artworks in immersive environments, enriching their understanding with context and narratives. Museums, including the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, leverage AR technology to create more engaging exhibitions, allowing visitors to interact with the artist's techniques and life story, thus broadening access to art.


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Collaborative platforms, such as Artfinder and Saatchi Art, further connect artists with a wider audience, promoting visibility and community engagement. These platforms enable independent artists to sell their work while fostering initiatives like themed exhibitions. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted many traditional art fairs to transition to virtual formats, exemplified by the Online Art Fair, which maintained connections between artists and buyers during challenging times.


In Oman, one of the company’s crowning achievements is the recent competition titled “A Global Canvas with an Omani Identity.” Dr. Awayif Al-Ghafri, head of the organising committee, shared her vision during an exclusive interview, stating, “This initiative encourages artists to draw deeply from their cultural roots while presenting their interpretations on a global stage. We aim to showcase Omani talent and promote our unique identity through the universal language of art." She added, "Art transcends borders, bridging cultures and fostering understanding. This competition demonstrates how local heritage can blend with global artistic traditions to create something extraordinary."


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This inspiring competition invited artists from every corner of Oman to express their creativity and honour the rich tapestry of their cultural heritage. An impressive exhibition concluded the event, generating widespread acclaim and recognition. The award ceremony celebrated outstanding participants, highlighting their hard work and dedication.


Among the standout entries was a reimagined version of the iconic Mona Lisa, infused with Omani cultural elements. The winning painting by Mohammed Al-Rawahi depicted the Mona Lisa donning traditional Omani attire, complete with intricate jewellery that reflects the country’s rich artistic legacy. Mohammed’s meticulous attention to detail transformed this universally recognised masterpiece into a powerful symbol of cultural pride and innovation.


The impacts of such initiatives extend far beyond individual achievements. By identifying and empowering talent, the Talent and Innovation Company is sowing the seeds of innovation and creativity across the Arab world. Its holistic approach equips participants not only with the skills they need to succeed but also instils the confidence to share their work with a global audience.


As the Talent and Innovation Company expands its reach, it uncovers the vast potential within local communities, bridging the gap between raw talent and professional guidance. Through this transformative journey, it is turning dreams into reality, laying the groundwork for a vibrant, interconnected future where creativity knows no bounds.


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