The British Omani Society (BOS) has officially opened its Golden Jubilee year with the launch of the 2026 Art Group project. Between 16–24 January, British artists Lucy Corbett and Michelle McCullagh travelled to Oman to lead a series of immersive workshops with a group of talented Omani artists. The 2026 project was organised by members of the British Omani Society, Polly and Felix Gedney, supported by the British Embassy in Muscat, and generously sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.
The programme opened at the British Embassy in Muscat, where participants explored the art of landscape painting. The session was honoured by the presence of the United Kingdom Chargé d’Affaires, Simon Smart, who praised the initiative’s role in fostering creative exchange.
On the second day, workshops moved to the Saheel Equestrian Ranch in Sifah, giving artists the chance to sketch and paint horses in motion.
The final day was spent at the Al Falaj Camel Track, where the group drew inspiration from the vibrant cultural atmosphere.
The artists then travelled to Ramlat Sharqiya, staying at Al Badri Bedouin camp. Surrounded by the desert’s natural beauty, they sketched and painted their surroundings while engaging with local Omani artists. The artists were shown the Omani art depicting memories of nomadic upbringing, sparking a meaningful exchange of ideas and perspectives between British and Omani artists.
British artist Michelle McCullagh reflected on the experience:
“This was a fantastic opportunity to work with another culture, in their country, and to be inspired by local landscapes and culture. It was fascinating to learn from the artists and their different techniques; the biggest joy was seeing the variety of work produced.”
The workshops brought together a group of talented artists: Waad Alkiyumi, Mohammed Alrawahi, Yaqoob Albulushi, Sami Syabi, Hajar Al Jufaili, Jumma Al Batashi, Oshibah Al Sandi, Yahya Al Mujaihli, Laura Willing, and Sarah Al‑Loughani. The workshops were also supported by the first cohort of artists, Ahmed Al‑Qasimi, Majid Al‑Amri, Sara Al‑Hosni, and Almuntasir Nasser. Their participation highlighted the diversity of artistic talent in Oman and reflected the strength of the UK-Oman partnership.
Fine Art teacher Yaqoob Albalushi described the experience as “a really valuable opportunity to learn from and work under the expertise and guidance of the British artists.”
Student Hajar Al Jufaili added that the workshops “built a community and a space to meet new artists, bridging a gap between the UK and Oman.”
Following the workshops, the British Embassy in Muscat will host an exhibition showcasing the collaborative work produced by both the British and Omani artists. The collaboration celebrates the enduring partnership between Oman and the United Kingdom, through artistic exchange, creative development and cultural dialogue.