MANAMA: Elham finally returns to Al Riwaq Art Space this month (January) with its 22^nd edition of its monthly gathering, to be held on January 26^th, at the recently opened revamped gallery space in Adliya.

The event will bring together a host of talents, both recognized artists and new promising talents, led by Bahraini artist, sculptor and architect Moosa Silwadi, who had recently held his latest solo exhibition at Bin Matter House. Silwadi will be talking about his work, which is inspired by his unique architectural designs, while playing some live music.

Through the course of his career, Silwadi worked as an interior, exhibition designer and architect all of which enriched his artistic and practical perception and experience. The mystery of deconstruction, the rhythm of flamenco music and the coffee shop aroma of espresso influenced and strengthened the fluidity of his work and expression.

Accompanying him on the night will be newcomer Dinara Kadirova, the 24-year-old University of Westminster graduate who had only picked up the brush a few months ago and started producing some startlingly strong, abstract and figure-based paintings. Another debutant making an appearance is David Hollywood, who will recite some of his poetry.

The evening will conclude with a photography presentation featuring some of the finest images taken by the participants of the group’s third Photographers’ Day Out, which was held in December and led by Lebanese artist/photographer Camille Zakharia and Bahraini photographer Ahmed Al Zayer.

Al Riwaq Art Space, which officially reopened to the public last month (December), was the first venue to host Elham’s events when the group was first established in late 2006. “We’re excited about going back to Alriwaq, especially with their new wonderful space. We’ve always been proud of the great support we’ve been getting since we started from everyone but specifically Al Riwaq Art Space and Albareh Art Gallery, who also played a great part in promoting us in the last couple of years,” explained Elham founder Ali Al Saeed.

ELHAM22 will start at 7pm and everybody is welcome. Entrance is free.