The Times Kuwait Report
Contemporary Art Platform (CAP) is holding a landmark retrospective exhibition titled ‘A Journey’, celebrating the artistic excellence of Jafar Islah, one of Kuwait’s most esteemed artists, at the CAP premises in Shuwaikh. The event, held under the auspices of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), was launched on 4 February in the presence of NCCAL Secretary-General Dr. Mohammad Al-Jassar, and in attendance of members of the diplomatic corps and a distinguished gathering of art aficionados.
This special exhibition, curated by CAP and organized as part of its contributions to Kuwait being recognized as the Arab Capital of Culture 2025, is the most comprehensive collection of Islah’s works ever assembled, spanning six decades of innovation, cultural dialogue, and artistic mastery.
Featuring rare early works of Jafar from 1965 and 1966 marking the beginning of Islah’s illustrious artistic journey, the exhibition offers audiences a rare glimpse into his formative years. It also includes unique archival material that document the evolution of his vision, as well as several pieces being exhibited for the first time. Together, these elements weave a narrative of Islah’s profound contributions to contemporary art in Kuwait an beyond.
Jafar Islah’s legacy is defined by his exceptional mastery of diverse artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, textile art, and more. His works have achieved global recognition, with pieces featured in major museum collections and exhibited internationally.
He has made significant contributions to Kuwait’s cultural heritage. One of his most iconic public artworks, ‘The Wall of Peace’ (1985), is a three-ton marble sculpture located along the seaside near Kuwait Towers, symbolizing his dedication to harmony and unity. In 1991, Islah further enriched Kuwait’s cultural landscape by designing a series of postage stamps commemorating Kuwait Independence Day. His work is part of the Arab Fund’s collection and is prominently displayed at their headquarters.
CAP has had a strong and enduring relationship with Jafar Islah, which has been integral to the gallery’s history. Soon after its founding, CAP had the honor of hosting Jafar Islah: A Retrospective Exhibition, which featured works spanning 1967 to 2011. That exhibition marked a defining moment for CAP, underscoring its commitment to fostering contemporary art and cultural dialogue in Kuwait. It also reflected CAP’s mission to cultivate aesthetic appreciation, establish public spaces for art and thought and support Kuwait’s cultural scene.
Islah’s artistic vision evolved continuously over his career. His personal qualities – humility, spiritual depth, and an appreciation for human heritage and Eastern civilizations, combined with his extensive knowledge of Islamic and Arab traditions and contemporary Western art movements, allowed him to craft thought-provoking works that transcend time and culture, resonating deeply with diverse audiences.
The exhibition ‘A Journey’ brings together artworks borrowed from institutions and private collectors in Kuwait and abroad, as well as pieces from the artist’s personal collection and CAP’s Collection. This exhibition not only offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the depth and richness of Islah’s artistic achievements, but also invites younger audiences to discover his inspiring creations and long-time admirers to rediscover his profound legacy.
CAP is privileged to celebrate Jafar Islah’s enduring contributions to Kuwait’s artistic heritage. This exhibition is a tribute to his remarkable career and a testament to the transformative power of art in shaping cultural and social narratives.
The exhibition will stay on view until 23 March 2025.
