Saudi Arabia Showcases its Culture in Milan

The Saudi Ministry of Culture logo
The Saudi Ministry of Culture logo
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Saudi Arabia Showcases its Culture in Milan

The Saudi Ministry of Culture logo
The Saudi Ministry of Culture logo

The Ministry of Culture is participating with a National Pavilion at Artigiano in Fiera, a global village of arts and crafts, displaying items, foods, and beverages from various corners of the globe for more than two decades.

It advocates for artisans, creators of beauty and goodness, presenting distinctive, high-quality products that honor both nature and people. This year's edition will take place in Rho, Milan, from December 2 to 10.

Artigiano in Fiera is now the world's biggest trade fair of its kind, celebrated for its unique blend of positivity and beauty. With a layout organized by regions, the event brings together thousands of artisans. Representing over 100 countries, these artisans showcase a wide range of products from food and textiles to design, furniture, personal care, and fashion.

Antonio Intiglietta, President of exhibition planner Ge.FI., expressed pride in Saudi Arabia's presence.

"After last year's success, we are extremely proud of Saudi Arabia's renewed presence, this year among the largest stands at the fair. We recommend all Italians to discover the wonderful traditions of Saudi culture,” Intiglietta said.

At the Saudi Pavilion, attendees can explore various traditional crafts, including the UNESCO-recognized Al-Qatt Al-Asiri—a unique form of traditional interior wall decoration crafted by skilled female artisans from the Southern region.

The exhibition also highlights the ancient artistry of Al Sadu, a traditional weaving technique passed down by the Central region’s women through generations. This curated presentation provides valuable insights into Saudi Arabia's diverse cultural heritage, emphasizing the unique contributions of its regions to the nation's historical tapestry.

To showcase the vast cultural legacy, the Saudi Ministry of Culture along with some of its 11 sector specific commissions and other will participate in the forthcoming exhibition.

The Saudi Pavilion will offer visitors unique and immersive experiences and enable them to interact directly with skilled Saudi artisans, gain valuable insights into the intricate materials and tools employed, and foster a deeper appreciation for the intrinsic value of each handicraft.

Moreover, the pavilion promises a sensory journey as visitors can indulge in the flavorful tastes of traditional Saudi dishes and culinary delights meticulously prepared by chefs selected by The Culinary Arts Commission. Through this participation, the Commission showcases Saudi cuisine both nationally and globally, and adds a delightful gastronomic dimension to the cultural showcase.

In addition to the visual and culinary treats, attendees can also bask in the artistic prowess showcased by traditional Saudi performers associated with the Theater and Performing Arts Commission. As a patron for all genres of performing arts, the commission brings forth characteristic musical and dance performances that enrich the cultural display.



Second Islamic Arts Biennale Set to Open in Saudi Arabia in January

Featuring the contributions of over 30 artists, the artworks will be on display in both indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces. SPA
Featuring the contributions of over 30 artists, the artworks will be on display in both indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces. SPA
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Second Islamic Arts Biennale Set to Open in Saudi Arabia in January

Featuring the contributions of over 30 artists, the artworks will be on display in both indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces. SPA
Featuring the contributions of over 30 artists, the artworks will be on display in both indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces. SPA

The Diriyah Biennale Foundation said that the second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale is scheduled to open on January 25 at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
The biennale aims to present a captivating blend of timeless treasures of Islamic civilization and contemporary artistic creations, offering visitors a journey through the artistic heritage of Islam that engages senses, intellect, and creativity.
Featuring the contributions of over 30 artists from Saudi Arabia and beyond, the artworks will be on display in both indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces.
Saudi artist Muhannad Shono will lead the curation of contemporary art, supported by associate curators Joanna Chevalier and Amina Diab.
Shono, alongside artistic directors Julian Raby, Amin Jaffer, and Abdul Rahman Azzam, has tasked the participating artists with creating new pieces that complement historical Islamic artifacts.
The theme of this biennale, "And all that is in between,” encapsulates the essence of the contemporary artworks, transcending simplistic notions and cultural dialogues to foster a collective understanding, imagination, and interpretation.
Many artists have found inspiration in timeless elements, seeking to captivate visitors with themes like space, time, and light. The artworks offer insight into ways of preserving and nurturing culture by exploring the evolving landscape in Saudi Arabia.
The new art pieces will be showcased alongside historical artifacts, including religious relics, maps, and jewelry, in five indoor exhibition halls and various outdoor spaces under the canopy of the Hajj Terminal.
The works are inspired by the concept of the garden in Islamic civilization, blending nature and traditional design while tackling contemporary environmental and social issues.
The 2025 Islamic Arts Biennale will be held in seven sections: AlBidaya (the beginning), AlMadar (the orbit), AlMuqtani (homage), AlMathala (the canopy), Makkah al-Mukarramah, Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, and AlMusalla (the prayer hall), spread throughout various galleries and outdoor areas, on 100,000 square meters of dedicated exhibition space.