In a striking fusion of history and innovation, the newly inaugurated Maryam Art Gallery within Bahla Fort exemplifies a rare harmony between the past and present—an creative space nestled inside one of Oman’s most revered heritage sites.
Unlike conventional exhibitions, this initiative transforms a centuries-old fortress into a living vessel of contemporary art, shining a spotlight on cultural continuity and modern expression.
Set within the ancient walls of Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the oldest structures in Oman, the gallery is the brainchild of Maryam Al Wahibi, an accomplished Omani visual artist.
Her decision to establish her space here is driven by deeply personal connections that transcend mere aesthetics, imbued with family history and national significance.
“The fort holds a special place in my heart,” Al Wahibi explains. “My great-grandfather served as a soldier here before the era of Sultan Qaboos, and my grandmother lived within these walls.
She still remembers vividly what it was like.” For her, Bahla Fort is more than a monument; it is a living symbol of identity, resilience, and cultural continuity.
What began as a tentative, temporary exhibition evolved into a permanent gallery, a move inspired by both opportunity and conviction.
Originally conceived as a fleeting showcase for her work, the project grew into a dedicated space that now features a rotating collection of paintings—each with its own story—alongside a modest gift shop selling art-inspired souvenirs.
“I never imagined it would become permanent,” Al Wahibi admits, “but circumstances allowed us to create something enduring, where visitors can not only view art but also carry a piece of it home.”
Inside the gallery, her works draw inspiration from Omani traditions, particularly the traditional attire of women from various regions.
The paintings, set against the textured earthen walls of the fortress, forge a dialogue between historical architecture and contemporary visual storytelling. This interplay amplifies the impact of her artwork, creating an immersive experience where archaeology and modernity seem to coalesce.
The reaction from visitors has been heartfelt. Al Wahibi has documented their impressions in a guestbook filled with expressions of admiration and gratitude. The local community of Bahla, too, has embraced the project as a new cultural landmark, recognising its potential to elevate the town’s historical significance.
For Al Wahibi, the gallery is more than an artistic endeavour; it is a scaffold for nurturing the next generation. She sees it as a catalyst for inspiring Omani youth, demonstrating how art can respect tradition while forging new pathways. Her vision extends far beyond Bahla, with aspirations to replicate the model across Oman’s heritage sites, turning ancient forts and museums into hubs of contemporary creativity.
“I am proud to be the first Omani woman to open an art gallery within such an historic setting,” she affirms. “My hope is that Bahla Fort gains the recognition it deserves from cultural and tourism authorities, and that this space becomes a blueprint for integrating heritage and art in a meaningful way.”
With her pioneering initiative, Bahla Fort is no longer solely a guardian of history. Thanks to the Maryam Art Gallery, it now pulses with life—an ongoing dialogue between centuries—where the strokes of modern artistry continue to reanimate the enduring legacy of Oman’s cultural landscape. This space not only honours the past but also sparks a future where heritage and contemporary creativity walk hand in hand.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
