

Under the endless blue skies of North Al Sharqiyah, the rhythmic sound of chisels striking stone resonates like a heartbeat, beckoning visitors to an extraordinary spectacle of art and culture.
The third edition of the Al-Khadra International Sculpture Symposium has transformed this tranquil region into a vibrant open-air gallery, where 14 talented artists from 13 countries come together to breathe life into massive stone blocks. As they work tirelessly under the sun, each artist engages not only with the stone but also draws inspiration from the local culture and the shared human experience.
This annual celebration of sculpture, organised by the Al-Khadra team and supervised by the Office of the Governor of North Al Sharqiyah, transcends mere artistry; it becomes a collage of cultural connection, sharing, and storytelling.

Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth, alongside various public and private institutions, the symposium is emblematic of Oman’s broader vision to cultivate a creative and innovative society while projecting its cultural heritage to a global audience.
Artists from diverse corners of the world—including Russia, Spain, Argentina, Iran, India, Iraq, Egypt, Poland, Macedonia, Tunisia, and Oman—convene, each bringing their unique techniques, traditions, and philosophical perspectives.
Every sculpture crafted offers a glimpse into the artist’s inner world, resonating with themes universal to humanity: love, struggle, joy, and resilience. The result is a powerful narrative about unity in diversity, constructed not just from stone, but from shared stories.
In the communal workspace, visitors observe with awe as artists transform austere, rough-hewn stones into exquisite forms, ranging from abstract creations that challenge perceptions to profoundly symbolic pieces steeped in cultural significance.

“Every sculpture is not just a piece of art but a voice that tells a story—a reflection of a culture, belief, and experience,” explains Youssef Al-Rawahi, a key member of the supervision team.
“By inviting renowned sculptors to Oman, we’re exposing the world to the Sultanate’s rich heritage and timeless values, weaving a tapestry of shared understanding.”
Amidst the flurry of chiselling and the palpable excitement, the artists embark on personal journeys of discovery. Laura Marcos, sharing her enthusiasm for the symposium, believes that participating in the event has been illuminating. Not only has it been an opportunity to express creativity, but it has also allowed them, as artists, to gain insight into Omani culture and its art. From the warmth of the people to the incredible flavours of the local cuisine, it’s a beautiful immersion.
Aleksandar Eftimovski and the other artists from abroad feel that collaboration lies at the heart of what they are doing here, with each learning from the other sculptors.

"Each cut I make carries a part of Omani spirit, intertwining our stories. Thus, the symposium becomes a living portrait of cultural exchange that transcends borders and barriers," said one of the attendees.
As the days unfold, the sculptures begin to take shape, each unique piece standing as a testament to human creativity. Visitors flock to the site to witness the transformation; children giggle while adults show thoughtful appreciation as they study each piece. The symposium offers workshops where attendees can try their hand at sculpting, guided by expert artists. This interactive experience enriches the festival atmosphere, creating a blend of admiration and active participation.
A local visitor, Ahmed, expresses his delight: “It’s been fascinating to see the different styles reflected in the sculptures! Each artist brings something special, and it’s a rare opportunity to witness something so transformative.” This spirit of community engagement reinforces the symposium's mission to make art accessible and relatable to everyone.

Looking ahead, the ambition of the Al-Khadra International Sculpture Symposium doesn’t conclude with the final unveiling of the sculptures. The vision is to establish Oman’s first contemporary sculpture museum, a hall of creativity that will showcase these masterpieces permanently. Abdulkarim Al-Rawahi, another key organiser, states, “This museum will not only enhance Oman’s appeal as a tourist destination but will position it as a global centre for cultural exchange. We hope it will inspire future generations and foster an ongoing dialogue about art.”
As the chisels are finally laid to rest and the dust settles, the sculptures stand proud, silent storytellers that will forever mark Oman’s cultural landscape. The Al-Khadra International Sculpture Symposium transcends being merely an art event; it emerges as a celebration of creativity, resilience, and unity. It reaffirms the idea that even the hardest stone can be shaped into something extraordinary—a poignant reminder of the beauty that emerges when cultures collide and connect.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here