History of the Collection
Discover how the Boushahri Art Gallery collection has grown from its early foundations to a comprehensive survey of contemporary art from Kuwait and the broader Middle East.
Foundation & Early Development
The Boushahri Art Gallery collection began with the vision of creating a comprehensive repository of contemporary art from Kuwait and the broader Middle East region. Founded over four decades ago, the collection initially focused on works by pioneering Kuwaiti artists who established the foundations of the country’s contemporary art movement.
The early collection emphasized paintings and sculptures that demonstrated the evolution from traditional artistic practices to contemporary expression.
Expansion & Diversification
As the gallery’s reputation grew, so did opportunities to acquire significant works by established regional artists and promising emerging talents. The collection expanded to include works from across the Gulf region, North Africa, and the broader Middle East.
The collection now includes paintings, sculptures, works on paper, photography, video art, and mixed media installations that collectively represent the diversity and vitality of contemporary Middle Eastern art.
Contemporary Focus
Recent acquisitions have emphasized works by younger artists who are developing new approaches to traditional themes while engaging with global artistic conversations.
The collection continues to grow through purchases, donations, and artist gifts, with each acquisition carefully considered for its artistic merit, cultural significance, and contribution to the overall coherence and quality of the collection.
