Bahrain Writers’ Circle (BWC) is set to stage its first national writing and art contest, inviting the community to bring alive their emotions amidst the ongoing uncertainty in the kingdom, writes Melissa Nazareth.

The event, hosted in collaboration with local art studio Createit, coincides with the group’s 15th anniversary this year and is open to Bahrain’s residents.

BWC was established in 2011 by former resident and best-selling author Robin Barratt. Over the years, it has welcomed writers of all experience levels – from the novice to the novelist. Presently, it has up to 50 members from a wide range of nationalities including Australian, Bahraini, British, Canadian, Indian, Malawian, Mauritian, Russian and more.

Submissions in the form of personal reflections and artistic expressions are invited and can include poetry, prose, or artworks. No political content will be accepted. 

Since the air strikes on Bahrain and the region, many have been experiencing anxiety, panic and helplessness. The sirens that go off without a warning and the looming threat of a drone attack or subsequent debris impact have taken a toll. 

The contest is timely considering many studies online indicate that practicing creative writing or any form of art can lead to better mood regulation, lower stress levels and increase overall life satisfaction.

“Creativity and healing spring from the same source,” BWC and Createit director Saira Ranj told GulfWeekly.

“Whether through words or visuals, mark‑making transforms struggle into strength by opening space for shared reflection,” added the artist and marketing manager from Seef District.

“Both Bahrain Writers’ Circle and Createit are championing the humanities and believe that the arts are responsible for activating reward networks within our brains ultimately fostering wellbeing. And so we offer an opportunity for all of us to engage about our Bahrain.”

Written submissions must be between 100 to 500 words and can be in English or Arabic, the BWC has confirmed, nodding to its ‘proud’ identity as a homegrown writing group. Art submissions can include paintings or visual representations related to the theme. Up to two entries per person are allowed, whether words or art. Entries must have a ‘Bahrain connection’.

Sharing some prompts for the contest, BWC has invited those interested to consider questions like ‘what is one lesson you have learned or are learning’, and ‘what might you have taken for granted that you now realise is valuable’.

Talking about the ‘prize’ for the contest, Saira said that the shortlisted entries will be showcased and promoted on BWC’s website and social media.

“We are in the process of finalising the judges, which will include founding members of BWC and external experts. There are ongoing discussions for the possibility to compile the ‘winning entries’ into an anthology. If we get sponsors, this is something we will definitely consider,” she revealed.

Those interested to participate can send their submissions by visiting bwcbh.com. Last date is March 31.

For more information, follow @bahrainwriterscirclebwc on Instagram.