U.S. Embassy and Art Reach Bahrain Unveil Mosaic Celebrating Young Talent

A colorful new mosaic artwork was unveiled at Manama’s Water Garden, thanks to a special collaboration between the U.S. Embassy and the local nonprofit Art Reach Bahrain. The project celebrates the achievements of 19 young graduates from the Access English Program.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a joyful event attended by the program alumni and Kim Chilmonik, Director of the U.S. Embassy’s Regional English Language Office (RELO). This marked the end of a six-week program that combined English learning, creativity, and community service.

The mosaic’s design takes inspiration from traditional Bahraini textiles, with the students creatively reimagining classic geometric patterns using modern mosaic art techniques. This beautiful blend of Bahrain’s heritage and contemporary art stands as a symbol of the power of youth leadership and learning.

The Access English Program is a two-year initiative aimed at empowering youth aged 13 to 17. Since 2004, it has helped over 1,300 young people in Bahrain improve their English skills while gaining leadership and career development experience.

Nathanael Lynn, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy, said, “This mosaic is more than just art — it shows what can happen when language learning, creativity, and young leaders come together. Watching these students bring their ideas to life has been truly inspiring.”