Deep in the heart of Muscat, Oman’s capital, is a vibrant contemporary art scene. Some would probably be surprised at this, particularly since the capital by the sea is an avid preserver of Islamic architecture and no skyscrapers clutter its skyline. However, Bait Muzna has been a major player in the contemporary art scene of Muscat since 2000.
Originally the home of a member of the royal family, Bait Muzna dates back to the 18th century and was part of the government’s plan to restore historic sites in 1999. The renovation came about through the vision and dedication of owner Sayyida Susan Al Said, American-born wife of a nephew of the original owner, Sayyida Muzna bint Nadir. “We are trying to open people’s eyes and show the relevance of contemporary work,” she says. “Omani artists are very keen to gain exposure, and our gallery is moving toward the contemporary field.”
Since its opening in 2000, Bait Muzna Gallery has been exhibiting both Omani and international artists, organizing workshops and taking part in international art forums such as Art Dubai and Art Paris in Abu Dhabi. The gallery’s then director, Ellen Molliet, shook things up in Muscat when, instead of closing for the four months of the summer, not only kept the gallery open but allowed for a more interactive exhibition in order to liven up the art scene. “I really wanted to change the way in which people out here view art. Hitherto, there was this very stereotype comelook- and-go approach to viewing art in galleries in general and Bait Muzna was no exception. I thought this was so dull and boring. I wanted art lovers and connoisseurs to come and see art as a living organism, as an extension of the artists’ persona and more importantly, as the collective consciousness and voice of Omani artists. And lastly I wanted to make this process of viewing art interactive, so that there is a closer identification among the people with their own art and culture; the artists are not only given ample space to exhibit some of their choicest works, but they also have the freedom to do their own thing inside the gallery whether it is to paint or interact with visitors who would like to know more about their works.”
Since its opening, the gallery has worked tirelessly to promote Omani art, Omani artists, and most importantly to get people talking on how art has really evolved in Oman and has acquired a character and identity of its own. The last of couple of years has seen a very busy schedule for the gallery, with sale trips abroad and proactive marketing of Bait Muzna’s artists. Now under the direction of Art Director, and artist, Monique Helou, the gallery continues to thrive and to expose the world to established and emerging Omani artists that are pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.
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