Kutubna Cultural Center exhibition eyes scene behind stage & screen
- 15 Feb 2025
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer
Kutubna Cultural Center, Dubai’s newest independent bookstore and cultural space, has launched The Art behind the Stars, an exhibition that attempts to bridge the glamour of international stars from the cinema and music worlds and the depth of fine art portraiture. The collection presents 22 artworks by Bahraini artist Jamal Abdul Rahim and features portraits of legendary figures from Hollywood and the Arab world, including Marilyn Monroe, Marlon Brando, Umm Kulthum and Abdel Halim, among others (Feb. 15 — Mar. 16). The display delves into the world of celebrity, through the lens of artistry and showcases portraits of international stars from the world of entertainment, each offering an individual perspective on culture, identity, experience, and memories.
The artworks offer a glimpse into the human side of the stage and screen legends and cultural icons, by looking behind the scenes. Each portrait provides a window into cultural memories, exploring how the iconic figures have shaped collective identity. The show is Jamal Abdul Rahim’s homage to the artists who still resonate with global audiences and have left their marks on many lives. The artist's journey in the art world has allowed him the freedom to experiment and stretch the boundaries of conventional image-making. He spent years studying the works of portrait masters, honing techniques to bring a modern touch and a fresh perspective to traditional methods.
The exhibition not only celebrates artistic expression, but also fosters dialogue about the power of portraiture in bridging cultural divides, thus making a significant contribution to contemporary art discourse.
Rahim is well known for his bright colour palette and portraiture, especially his portraits of Umm Kulthum. Shatha Almutawa, Founder and Director of Kutubna Cultural Center, said: "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.” The current exhibition is supported by The International House Group; Al Bait Al Duwaliy Real Estate; Al Noon Residence; and Alef Noon Residence.
Jamal Abdul Rahim was born in Al Muharraq in Bahrain in 1965, and began life as a feisty individual in a Muharraqi environment. He was strongly attached to the sea, after spending most of his childhood, enjoying its beauty. His tryst with art started when he returned from India in 1984, with a diploma in engineering drawing. He became a member of the Bahrain Arts Society (BAS) in 1988, when he met the distinguished Bahraini artist, A. Jabbar Ghadban. Rahim was fascinated by Ghadban’s techniques in etching and printing, and went on to learn the basics of these skills. His first solo exhibition was held in 1990 at the BAS exhibition hall. He has subsequently held exhibitions in Kuwait, Egypt, Morocco, Syria, Saudi Arabia, the UK, Norway, Holland, Japan, Slovenia, Spain, and France, to name a few locations.
Kutubna Cultural Center was established in 2023 as an independent bookstore and literary hub for Dubai and the Gulf region. It offers an inclusive community space to enjoy books, art, specialty coffee, and cultural events. Kutubna celebrates the accomplishments of Khaleeji, Arab, Middle Eastern, North African, and Muslim writers, poets, thinkers, artists, and researchers and strives to make creative and scholarly pursuits accessible to people who are traditionally at the margins. Its events are specially focused on mothers with young children.
Established in 1998, International House Real Estate Project Management L.L.C (IHRPM) is a privately owned family business based in Dubai. It is recognised as a real estate innovator across Dubai and is one of the most trusted names in the real estate industry in the country. IHRPM builds local communities, attracts international investments, offers strategic management of property assets, raises capital and financing, and provides expertise and guidance to local and international investors in the UAE’s world-class property market. IHRPM utilises over two decades of market experience.
Al Bait Al Duwaliy is an award-winning property developer in Dubai. It is a part of International House for Real Estate Project Management, established in 1998. The developer is known for Al Noon Residence, Heritage Building, and Alef Noon, as well as commercial projects in Nad Al Hamar and 93-94 Avenues. The company incorporates art and creative designs, and delivers projects in the freehold areas of the UAE. Alef Noon Residence is a luxurious residential development that blends contemporary design with sophisticated amenities, offering a premium living experience in a prime Dubai location. It is situated in the heart of Jumeirah Village Circle, a community celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere, expansive green spaces, and a harmonious blend of residential and commercial offerings. Al Noon Residence is an apartment complex featuring modern amenities and artistic design elements. It is the first real estate property in the UAE to incorporate contemporary Arabic art in every part of the building, including in the design of each apartment.
