Miniature watercolor artwork by Asghar

ature was simply a part of his identity. He discovered his ability to pick up a pencil and draw when he was seven years old. But as he was growing up as a teenager, he figured he’d have to find some sort of practical way to support his family. He started as a factory wielder, moved forward as an industrial machinist to retire after 30 years a die corrector.But working did not stop him from creating art. He would draw on weekends, attend art exhibitions and met with local artists who would encourage him to join the art society – whereby he gradually gained guidance from members as they go in groups and paint in the studio or outdoors. There he began exploring another way of expressing his art – in color and shimmering light. He began to use water colors and oils.

“I have been painting seriously since 1973.  Joining the Bahrain Art Society really helped me. The society has some of the best Bahraini painters today, and to be considered one of their peers and friends has definitely helped my confidence in my career as an artist.”

That was in the 70s. Today, after so many years spent honing his skills, and his contemporaries have explored different art forms and avenues, Ashqar Ismael is considered as a Regionalist, a painter who captures the particular corner of the world where he lives.

“I love Bahrain, the sand, light, mood, and atmosphere. I don’t feel the need to go anywhere to get inspired. I paint what is part of me. And, after all these years, I’m still discovering new areas to explore and paint. There’s no shortage of inspiration for me in my country.”Spontaneous in portraying traditional Bahraini life, Ashqar, present his most recent works re-introducing Miniature art in watercolor. As if trying to tap into his childhood roots, his rendering is classically simple in form and composition. The small scenes they depict captivates the viewer who in the small moment will notice the poetry. Infused with his vision, these works never flaunt but whisper for attention and refreshes the viewer’s spirit through this labor of love  ab