Hail, Saudi Arabia, January 8, 2025 – The Handicrafts Festival (HARFA) in Hail has once again captivated visitors with its showcase of traditional craftsmanship, drawing attention to the rich cultural heritage of the region. One of the standout attractions of this year’s festival is the wooden doors and gypsum carvings pavilion, which has become a popular destination for both local and international visitors eager to explore the intricate craftsmanship behind these timeless art forms. The pavilion offers a unique glimpse into the artistry and attention to detail that has defined the architectural and decorative traditions of Hail and the broader Najd region for centuries.
Craftsman Abdullah Al-Khazam, a skilled artisan specializing in traditional woodwork, shared with the Saudi Press Agency the meticulous process involved in the creation of these remarkable pieces. He explained that the wooden doors on display, many of which are replicas of the distinctive doors found in old Hail houses, are crafted from tamarisk and other local woods. The production of these doors requires a high degree of skill and precision, as the process involves not only woodworking but also understanding the historical significance of these structures. Al-Khazam pointed out the notable differences between the wooden doors found in Najd and those typical of Hail: while Najdi doors are traditionally made from three beams, Hail doors are distinguished by their use of four beams, reflecting the unique architectural style of the region.
In addition to the wooden doors, the pavilion also features an impressive collection of Islamic plaster engravings, which are closely tied to the local environment and the architectural traditions of the Najd region. These intricate carvings, once used to adorn buildings, entrances, and majlis (traditional council rooms), continue to be a hallmark of Najdi architecture. The engravings showcase a wide range of decorative motifs, including geometric patterns, floral designs, and calligraphic elements. Some of the engravings on display are inspired by historical Hail majlis, giving visitors a chance to appreciate the skillful replication of ancient designs that once adorned the walls of these gathering spaces.
A particularly fascinating aspect of the pavilion is its collection of replicas of traditional engravings from ancient Hail majlis, which have drawn significant interest from festival-goers. Many visitors, captivated by the beauty and cultural significance of these artworks, have expressed a desire to acquire similar pieces to adorn their own homes. These engravings are not only seen as a form of decoration but also as valuable representations of heritage, reflecting the rich cultural legacy of the region. The artwork includes various designs, ranging from Quranic verses and proverbs to depictions of plants, trees, and other natural elements, all of which add layers of meaning and context to the work.
The pavilion also highlights drawings and engravings that once adorned the walls of ancient clay houses in Hail. These traditional artworks were more than just decorative; they carried significant cultural and spiritual meaning, with many featuring Quranic verses or Islamic sayings that reflected the faith and values of the community. The intricate decorative patterns and symbols found in these engravings provide a fascinating insight into the region’s artistic and cultural evolution over the centuries. The pavilion’s display of these traditional works serves as an important reminder of the deep cultural roots embedded in Hail’s architectural history, as well as the region's continued commitment to preserving these vital aspects of its heritage.
As visitors from various parts of Saudi Arabia and abroad explore the pavilion, the Handicrafts Festival (HARFA) continues to play a pivotal role in celebrating and promoting Saudi Arabia's rich artisan traditions. The festival offers a rare opportunity to engage with the crafts that have shaped the Kingdom’s history, while also providing a platform for skilled artisans like Abdullah Al-Khazam to share their expertise and knowledge with a broader audience. Through events like this, the Kingdom not only preserves its cultural heritage but also fosters an appreciation for the timeless beauty and craftsmanship that continues to define its artistic identity.
