A Splash of Color at Bahrain International Airport: Sir Brian Clarke’s Concordia
Arriving at Bahrain International Airport is now a more vibrant experience, thanks to an extraordinary new art installation titled Concordia, created by renowned stained glass artist Sir Brian Clarke. Unveiled on April 10 in the presence of royal family members and esteemed artists, this captivating work measures an impressive 34 meters wide and 17 meters tall, making it a striking centerpiece in the airport’s main terminal.
Symbolism and Vision
The installation is not just visually stunning; it carries profound meanings. Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, described Concordia as a representation of the kingdom’s “openness, hospitality, and ambition.” This statement encapsulates the essence of Bahrain’s cultural ethos, emphasizing a welcoming spirit towards visitors and an unwavering commitment to progress.
A Labor of Love
Crafted over two and a half years, Concordia is the result of the dedication and skill of 21 artisans. The vibrant stained glass panels were mouth-blown in Germany, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship. Five artisans worked closely to produce the glass, ensuring its unique qualities were preserved. Installation of the 127 glass panels took a staggering 43 days and involved 296 hours of precise work, a testament to the project’s complexity and significance.
Artistic Elements and Cultural Fusion
Sir Brian Clarke’s work is celebrated worldwide, having adorned churches and public buildings, and even inspired a BBC documentary. Concordia serves as a revival of stained glass art, blending traditional techniques with contemporary themes. The artwork features various motifs deeply rooted in Bahrain’s culture, including jasmine flowers, dragonflies, and hawks, reflecting the kingdom’s natural beauty.
Moreover, Clarke’s exploration of geometric patterns inspired by Islamic art highlights a cross-cultural dialogue that merges Eastern and Western artistic traditions. Having studied the intricacies of these designs in Fez, Clarke integrates them with references to medieval European tapestries, creating a rich tapestry of cultural exchange.
A Message of Youthful Optimism
During the unveiling, Sir Brian Clarke emphasized the significance of Concordia in representing Bahrain’s aspirations. He stated, “Bahrain is a youthful country with youthful aspirations and optimisms, and I like to think that the Concordia stained glass reflects those youthful optimisms.” His words resonate with the kingdom’s spirit, mirroring a forward-thinking outlook that embraces art and culture as vital components of national identity.
A Commitment to Public Accessibility
The Bahrain ruling family has a longstanding commitment to the arts, evident in their support for public installations rather than private collections. Sheikh Rashid Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, chairman of Bahrain’s National Council for Arts and a respected artist himself, expressed his enthusiasm at the unveiling, highlighting the importance of making art accessible to the general public. This dedication ensures that artworks like Concordia can inspire and engage a diverse audience, enriching the experience of travelers and locals alike.
In sum, Concordia is more than just a beautiful installation; it embodies the essence of Bahrain’s cultural identity, serving as a bridge between the past and future, East and West, and the individual and the community. Visitors arriving at the airport will undoubtedly find themselves captivated by this magnificent piece of art, reflecting Bahrain’s dynamic spirit and artistic ambition.
