MUSCAT : The participation aims to strengthen Oman’s cultural presence on the international stage and promote culture as a bridge for civilisational dialogue and mutual understanding between peoples. This marks Oman’s third participation in the prestigious global art event.

This year’s Biennale, titled ‘In Minor Keys’, focuses on subtle human expressions and deeper meanings in contemporary artistic practice.

His Excellency Sayyid Saud bin Hilal Al Busaidi, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, said Oman’s participation reflects a strategic national direction to enhance its cultural visibility globally and reinforce culture as a form of soft power and a tool for building bridges between civilizations.

He added that Omani culture is capable of making a qualitative contribution to global cultural discourse by presenting a civilizational model rooted in moderation, balance, and openness.

He said: “We believe Omani culture has the ability to make a qualitative contribution to the global cultural discourse and present a civilizational model that reflects the depth of the Omani experience and strengthens its presence internationally in a more influential and sustainable way, grounded in moderation, balance, and openness.”

Artistic curator Haitham bin Mohammed Al-Bousafi said Oman’s participation in the Biennale represents a significant opportunity to showcase the depth of Omani cultural heritage and its refined artistic expressions, aligned with the theme ‘In Minor Keys’, which emphasises quiet tones and subtle artistic language.

He added that elements of Omani culture, including traditional horse adornment such as the ‘Zana’, reflect a cultural philosophy that values appreciation over possession, and views decoration as an act of recognition rather than display or ownership.

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