Khasab hosts international sculpture forum, aims for an open-air museum
The ongoing second edition of Musandam International Sculpture Forum is witnessing intense competition featuring five sculptors from Oman, Japan, Ukraine, Tunisia and Georgia.
This unique event, from February 6 to 29 at Bassa Beach in the wilayat of Khasab, aims to transform the local landscape into a canvas for creative expression.
In a conversation with Muscat Daily, Forum Supervisor Dr Ali al Jabri revealed the forum's ambitious goal of establishing the Middle East's first open-air sculpture museum.
The innovative project seeks to blend art with the natural and cultural essence of Musandam, drawing inspiration from its rugged terrain, rich history and diversity. The event is part of Musandam’s winter activities, organised under the auspices of Musandam Governor’s Office.
This year's forum has seen artists working on multiple sculptures reflecting various artistic styles aiming to enrich public spaces in Khasab. These art installations are not only expected to beautify and enhance the aesthetic and cultural appeal of the region but also attract domestic and international tourists.
Initially, the sculptures will adorn Bassa Beach, with plans to gradually disperse these across Khasab in future editions of the forum. “The vision is to position Khasab - and Musandam at large - as a prime destination for culture and art, inviting international sculptors and art enthusiasts to explore and engage with the region's artistic offerings.”
Jabri emphasised the forum's role as a vibrant cultural movement in Oman, fostering interactions and exchanges among international artists. It serves as a platform for sculptors to share their expertise in marble, stone and wood carving, while promoting sculpture as an important art form among the Omani community, especially the youth.
The forum's broader objectives include making Oman a global hub for sculpture, showcasing the country's natural and cultural heritage, and encouraging Omani youth with talent for sculpting to participate and contribute to the art form's growth in the sultanate.
The vision is to position Khasab - and Musandam at large - as a prime destination for culture and art, inviting international sculptors and art enthusiasts to explore and engage with the region’s artistic offerings