An exhibition featuring the work of 65 Omani women artists opened on Tuesday at the Omani Society for Fine Arts in Ghala, marking Omani Women’s Day with a collection titled “Jawahir Fanniya” (Artistic Jewels). The showcase, organised by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth through the society, will run through October 29 under the patronage of Halima al Zarai, Chairperson of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority.
The exhibition comprises 70 pieces spanning various media, including painting, digital design, photography, calligraphy, sculpture, and ceramics. It aims to highlight Omani women’s cultural heritage through the representation of traditional silver and jewellery motifs, as well as to underscore women’s contributions to the country’s creative industries.
Mai al Wahaibi, one of the participating artists, said her painting portrays Omani women as more than just wearers of gold ornaments. “The jewels in the painting are not the gold ornaments alone, but the Omani woman herself,” she explained. For her, the exhibition’s central theme elevates Omani jewellery beyond adornment to symbolize pride in identity and strength rooted in history. She described the Omani woman as “a jewel whose shine grows brighter whenever she expresses her identity,” highlighting how heritage and modernity intertwine.
Eng Noora al Balushi, a member of the Omani Society for Fine Arts and a guest of honour this year, contributed a realistic painting celebrating Omani dress and its role in cultural transmission. Her work incorporates an incense burner, a traditional symbol of warmth and hospitality, to reflect the central role of women in nurturing home and community. “Our authenticity is the most beautiful thing we have,” she said.
In addition to traditional artistic forms, the exhibition features contemporary approaches such as digital design. Loura al Siyabi, a jewellery designer and 3D CAD specialist, presented a digital design of a bracelet inspired by Omani heritage but reimagined with modern movement and interactivity. The rotating ring at the centre of the piece symbolizes progress and the ability of Omani women to maintain their cultural roots while advancing into the future.
Awatif al Fazari, Director of the Studio Section at the Omani Society for Fine Arts, emphasized the exhibition’s role in celebrating both emerging talents and established artists. She stressed that the narrative of Omani women extends beyond a single event or day, noting, “She is the Omani woman, and she is half of society.”
“Jawahir Fanniya” thus serves as both an artistic tribute and a platform to strengthen women’s visibility and participation across Oman’s cultural and creative sectors.