If you haven’t spent a slow Sunday at the Kutubna Cultural Center, what have you been doing with your weekends? It’s a wonderful creative space that celebrates the accomplishments of Khaleeji authors, artists, and offers all-around support for the development of this region’s talent.
This independent bookstore and cultural hub showcases 'The Art behind the Stars', a collection of striking artworks by Bahraini artist Jamal A. Rahim, the exhibition features portraits of some of the most legendary figures from Hollywood and the Arab world, including Marilyn Monroe, Marlon Brando, Umm Kulthum, Abdel Halim Hafez, and more. The Art Behind the Stars is currently on display and will run until March 16, 2025.
This exhibition takes visitors through an artistic exploration of stars via Rahim’s masterful lens. With each portrait, Rahim delves into these larger-than-life figures, offering a glimpse into the personalities of some of the world’s most iconic stars. From Hollywood legends to musical icons of the Arab world, these artworks reveal the deeper cultural impact these figures have had on individual lives and collective memory. The portraits create a dialogue between the glamour of fame and the deeper cultural and human connections forged through their work. Through The Art Behind the Stars, Rahim honours the artists who have profoundly shaped global culture.
Jamal A. Rahim’s journey to becoming a celebrated artist has been shaped by years of dedication to perfecting his craft. Blending traditional techniques with a modern twist, his vibrant use of colour and distinctive approach to portraiture have earned him recognition across the globe. Rahim’s previous exhibitions have taken place in renowned galleries and art spaces in countries such as Kuwait, Egypt, Morocco, Syria, Saudi Arabia, the UK, Norway, Holland, Japan, Slovenia, Spain, and France, further cementing his reputation as an influential contemporary artist.
Known for his vivid colour palette and evocative portraiture, Rahim’s work often focuses on the legendary Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum, whose iconic image has been immortalised through his art. This new exhibition marks a continuation of Rahim’s passion for portraying cultural icons who resonate deeply with global audiences. It also invites viewers to explore the power of portraiture in the modern world, particularly in bridging cultural divides. As Rahim’s works combine the visual language of the past with a contemporary perspective, they speak to the role of art in creating connection and understanding.
Shatha Almutawa, founder and director of Kutubna Cultural Center mentions: "The ‘Art behind the Stars’ marks our first exhibition in 2025 and the first solo exhibition by a Bahraini artist at the center. We are proud to be able to share Jamal A. Rahim’s works and celebrate his accomplishments, thanks to the valuable support from our exhibition partners, the International House Group and Al Bait Al Duwaliy Real Estate. We are planning a variety of cultural events at Kutubna and some new additions. This year, we will also host a philosophy lecture series, writing workshops, and events for parents with their young children, such as ‘Philosophy in the Playroom’ and ‘Poetry in the Playroom.’ Art workshops for people of all ages continue weekly at Kutubna, along with events for kids and teens”.
Visit: kutubna.ae
Hayley is passionate about everything 90s, from art and fashion to music. Her love for glossy, artful coffee table books started early during her days in book publishing and has only grown since. She collects luxury magazines from around the world, enjoys exploring creative workshops around the city, and always chases dinners with a view, preferably by the beach.
