The Nest 2017, organized by Al Riwaq Art Space in partnership with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and Tamkeen, is set to launch in Block 338 in Gudaibiya on Thursday.

The Nest is an annual outdoor art market that has since its inception, grown in popularity amongst artists to become one of the most important events on Bahrain’s arts calendar.
The event comes as part of BTEA’s long term strategy that contributes to promoting the national economy and 2030 Economic Vision.
Chief Executive Officer of BTEA, Shaikh Khalid bin Hamoud Al Khalifa, during a press conference, said the event aims to revitalize the tourism sector and attract both Bahraini visitors and tourists from the GCC countries and beyond."
"The BTEA appreciates Al Riwaq Art Space’s efforts to contribute to highlighting Bahrain's tourism standing by launching various festivals and events, as well as providing a unique experience to visitors of all ages. This will contribute towards further strengthening Bahrain's status as an ideal tourist destination for families," he added.
Director of Al Riwaq Art Space, Bayan Kanoo, said Al Riwaq Art Space aims to revive the artistic and creative spirit of Bahrain’s culture through various areas of art, including design, culinary art and more.
Kanoo also expressed her happiness in launching The Nest 2017 which supports the growing artistic movement in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and helps drive more spontaneous approach to art.
"Appeal" is the title of a new visual project of Al Riwaq Art Space initiative, which aims to support creativity and artistic production to enrich the Bahraini cultural landscape and connect it to its counterparts in the world. The project is an extension of the ongoing activities of the gallery to explore the public spaces and the integration of visual arts in these areas of activities.
Additionally, this year's event aims to utilize the vital energy of the public space to produce works of art designed to adapt to the specific nature of this space by inviting a group of professional artists residing in Bahrain and abroad to share creative visions, and produce independent or collaborative works.
The events will be held at the market during the weekends; Thursdays from 5 pm to 11 pm, Fridays from 3 pm to 11 pm, and Saturdays from 3 pm to 9 pm. 
The musical event will be held at 8 pm every Thursday, the screening will begin at 7 pm on Fridays, and the artist talks sessions will be between 4 pm and 7 pm every Saturday.
Through its participation, Tamkeen continues to support initiatives that aim to achieve prosperity for the national economy and enhance the role of the private sector as a main economic driver.