The art of time, space and history

The Bahrain National Museum will be hosting an exhibition by renowned Spanish artist Juan Garaizabal entitled ‘Memories Carved in Steel: Echoes from Dilmun and Beyond’ on Saturday

The showcase, which is being organised by the RAK Art Foundation and the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), invites guests to delve into Juan’s thought-provoking exploration of the dimensions of time, space, and human history through his works of art.

There will be 12 large-scale outdoor sculptures, including two pieces specially commissioned for Manama, along with 10 intricate works on paper and five smaller sculptures displayed inside the museum.

Juan’s art uniquely interweaves architecture, memory, and sculpture to create awe-inspiring monuments that bring the past to life.

At the heart of the exhibition is his acclaimed piece, ‘The Door of Dilmun’. It is inspired by the ancient city of Dilmun, renowned for its association with purity and eternal life and is composed of stainless steel and concrete.

According to Juan, this piece ‘stands as a monument to the fleeting nature of human greatness, reminding us that even the most splendid civilizations are destined to fade’.

While visitors will have the opportunity to interact with 10 outdoor sculptures that harmonize with Bahrain’s landscape, the indoor segment of the exhibition further extends the narrative, featuring detailed drawings and smaller sculptures that invite guests into a reflective journey bridging history and modernity.

The exhibition runs until May 23, 2025.

Juan’s sculptures have been featured worldwide, including a recent landmark installation at Art Basel, Switzerland, and the celebrated Urban Memory Miami Havana's Balcony.

Juan is also actively developing the International Center for Nature and Contemporary Sculpture near Madrid, a project he envisions as his legacy for future generations.