Monday 13 / January / 2025
MUSCAT: Oman’s fifth anniversary celebrations of its Renaissance Day will witness a historic event featuring a celebrated, internationally known, artist who is all set to make a concerted bid to enter the Guinness Book of World Records with an attempt to create a sizable painting in a painting marathon.
Iranian artist Mahnoush Abbasgholy (Mia), in her individual ‘paint-athon’, will be attempting to paint a 40-metres (40mts x 120cms) artwork in seven days, hoping to paint over 15 hours a day, completing the painting in over 100 hours, which when completed will help her enter into the Guinness Book of World Records.
Sparkles of Oman
This ground-breaking live, seven-days’ event, titled ‘Sparkles of Oman’, will be held at Al Bandar lawn area of Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah from January 15 to 21. Residents of Oman are invited to witness this historic event, set to place the Sultanate of Oman on the world map.
Sparkling tribute to Oman
The theme of the ‘Sparkles of Oman’ painting will capture Oman’s mesmerising landscapes, city lights, beaches, mountains and will depict a glowing interpretation of Omani landscape, culture and heritage. “It will be a vibrant journey through the Sultanate’s breath-taking scenery using a medium of contemporary art, weaving gold and silver leaf into the panoramas, adding texture and vibrant colours,” Abbasgholy explained. “It will be a sparkling tribute to Oman through art,” she added.
The finished painting will later be auctioned off to benefit the non-governmental organisation, Children First Association.
Royal patronage
The opening ceremony, on January 15 at 10.30am onwards, of the grand event will be held under the patronage of Sayyid Khalid bin Hamed bin Hamoud Al Busaidi, chairman of Sabco group of companies and Sheikh Ahmed bin Suwaidan Al Balushi, chairman of Al Balushi Investments.
The closing ceremony, on January 22 at 5.30pm onwards, will be held under the patronage of Her Highness Dr Mona bint Fahad Al Said, assistant vice chancellor – external cooperation – Sultan Qaboos University and the chairperson of Children First Association and Sheikh Ahmed bin Suwaidan Al Balushi.
20 years of hospitality
This inspiring art-for-charity event is hosted at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah. The resort along with Shangri-La Al Husn marks their 20 years of exceptional hospitality in the Sultanate of Oman.
Artist Abbasgholy’s painting will be auctioned off to benefit the Children First Association, embodying Shangri-La’s ongoing commitment to meaningful community engagement, a top hotel official commented.
Over the past two decades, Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah has become a cherished family resort offering vibrant experiences, while Shangri-La Al Husn serves as a serene retreat for adults seeking luxury and tranquillity. As part of their year-long anniversary celebrations, Sparkles of Oman sets the tone for a series of exciting events and exclusive offers throughout the year.
“It is such an honour to host an event that contributes to the community, with proceeds from the painting’s auction going to Children First Association,” Philippe Kronberg, the resort’s general manager, said.
“We are thrilled to support this Guinness World Record attempt and to kick off our 20th anniversary celebrations with an initiative that not only inspires but also gives back to the community. Shangri-La has always been at the heart of Oman’s vibrant cultural and social events, and we are proud to begin the year with a cause that brings joy and hope to children,” Kronberg added.
