World Inspired Landscapes: Bahrain i, 5 x 5" cold press watercolour, December 2020
Historically Bahrain was known as an island oasis in the middle east. Abundant fresh water aquifers gave life to an otherwise arid and barren land. Its proximity to other countries in the middle east also made it a powerful trading hub, and the center of many conflicts over time. I read about this in a book from the cultural center which explained the history, culture, and landscape of Bahrain. I also looked at google map view. They have built many artificial islands and reclaimed land from the sea to support a growing number of people and condominiums, which you see on the right island. On the left I showed the tree of life, a famous landmark that inspired awe in many travelers, it was a giant tree in the midst of a desert. But the most important element of the design is the water, which is featured in a heart-shaped inlet shimmering in a variety of turquoise.
World Inspired Landscapes: Bahrain ii, 2 x 3.5" cold press watercolour, December 2020
I liked the ideas in the first version of this painting but it felt a little too much like the Bahamas painting, and it didn't quite capture the night life aspect of Bahrain which is normally a touristy place in the middle east. In this version I changed the angle on the bay of water and made it even more heart shaped. I also changed the time of day to dusk, giving things a bit more mystery. The tree of life is still in the upper left, and I added four coloured kayak/canoe style boats to emphasize the recreation aspect.
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