Ahmed Baqer’s passion for pencil drawing was prevalent since his youth. However, his commitment to pencil initiated in order to make a statement- it was in a sense, a revolt against the hierarchy of materials used in the art world. Baqer’s most recent work focuses the Arabian Horse. He aspired to use his exceptional use of pencil to depict the Arabian horse in its most vibrant state. His horses are portrayed with varying temperaments and the atmosphere that each work emits differs depending on the state of being of the horse. Baqer used pencil with ease and grace and his marks are frank, immediate and spontaneous, reflecting the vivacity of the Arabian horse. His archaeological and cultural influence is deeply present as his materials are not only reminiscent of that which is primitive, but his images are also timeless. His works incorporate Islamic calligraphy as well as traces of the artist’s woodcarvings.

In 1972, the Ecole Nationalle Superieure des Beaux Arts in Paris (which Baqer attended) initiated a diploma in pencil drawing. Baqer was the recipient of this diploma. It was this event that ascertained his belief that pencil drawing was as noble as oil painting and would have its place confirmed, rather than remain a preparatory material.

Amongst a range of achievements, in 1983 Dr. Baqer was awarded the silver medal by the Societe des Artistes Francais for his participation in the Salon Des Artistes Francais held at the Grande Palais in Paris. The same year, he also assisted in the founding of the Bahrain Art Society. In 1986 Dr. Baqer was chosen by The United Nations Education Science and Culture Organization to participate in an exhibition representing the worlds main contemporary art trends held on the occasion of UNESCO’s 40th anniversary in Paris.

Ahmed Baqer was head of Bahrain Art and Heritage Centre and was a professor at the University of Bahrain.