Studio Residencies

Our process oriented residency emphasizes a critical approach to art making, research, and production. The residency experience is designed to widen possibilities and push practices through mentorship, critique, and peer exchange.

Alongside personal mentorship and discussion, the residency provides a mix of group critique, talks, courses, as well as field visits to encourage the exploration of complex personal and ethical questions.

View current open calls

Program Overview

The residency presents a 16-week, intensive and demanding programme culminating in a group exhibition. Participating artists will receive individual studio space in our residency studio compound, and use the studio for research, discussion, project development, and production, with support from Al Riwaq.

Alongside the personal mentorship, group discussions, and collaborative engagements with the other residents, the residency will provide a range of learning opportunities for participants. This includes, but is not limited to: a selection of workshops, talks, courses, exhibition and cultural visits, all of which will facilitate research into contemporary art and constructive critique whilst acknowledging the integrity of differences despite shared experiences.

Throughout the residency, participants also examine the legacy of global art history and the current state of the world. By taking part, artists will gain motivation, expand their knowledge, and their critical perspectives.

Residencies take place twice a year (winter / summer)

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View current open calls

Previous Cohorts

Winter 2025

Application 004

Participating artists:

Ahmed Alabbadi
Ammar Bin Yasser
Dina Hashem
Shereen Fikri
Nayla Ali Khalifa
Khurram Salman

Group Exhibition: 'Closer to Home'

Summer 2024

Application 003

Participating artists:

Ahmed Al Asad
Ahmed Al Kuwaiti
Shaden Al Mutlaq
Virginie Dryer
Hayat Hassan
Aziz Jamal
Waheeda Malullah

Group Exhibition: 'Engaging / Circumstance'

Winter 2024

Application 002

Participating artists:

Jaafar Al Haddad
Rawan Al Hosani
Mariam Al Sadadi
Sarah Aradi
Ahmed Ashour
Omnia El Amir
Aziz Motawa

Group Exhibition: 'Reality and its Shadows'

Winter 2023

Application 001

Participating artists:

Shaikha Al Salman
Ishaq Madan
Ali Hussain Mirza
Hisham Sharif

Group Exhibition: 'Rite of Passage'

Frequently Asked Questions

Would I need to purchase tickets to visit the Gallery?

Al Riwaq gallery and most events are free of charge. Except for workshops and courses.

Where is Al Riwaq located?

We are located at the heart of Manama, Bahrain. Specifcally in AlGuful neighbourhood.

I want to visit Al Riwaq, what should I expect?

There is so much to do at Al Riwaq! If you're looking to learn new skills we offer monthly programs: workshops, courses, talks and panel discussion. For coffee or a quick bite you could visit our café. You could take stroll in our gardens. Check out our library for a relaxing read. For fun join our events, and you could explore art works all over the house and so much more..."

How can I organise a workshop at Al Riwaq?

Please fill out Workshop Form here and we will get back to you as soon as possible!