Riyadh, October 17, 2024 – The Saudi Heritage Commission is set to host the second edition of the Saudi International Handicrafts Week, titled "Banan," under the esteemed patronage of Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Heritage Commission. This highly anticipated event will take place at the Roshn Front in Riyadh from November 23 to 29, 2024, with the aim of showcasing authentic handicrafts and traditional industries while supporting artisans from both the Kingdom and abroad.
"Banan" promises to be a vibrant celebration of traditional craftsmanship, featuring an array of pavilions and activities designed to enrich the visitor experience. Highlights include a Handicraft Arts Village, a Live Craft Demonstration Pavilion, a Craft Exhibition, a Handicraft Workshop Pavilion, an Interactive Experience Zone, and an Entrepreneurs and Artisan Institutions Platform. Additionally, a dedicated Children's Pavilion will offer a variety of engaging activities tailored for younger attendees. With participation from more than 20 countries, over 500 local and international artisans will display their exceptional creations.
The exhibition serves as a dynamic platform not only for promoting traditional handicrafts but also for economically empowering artisans by providing them with opportunities to market their work to a wider audience of local and international visitors. Recognizing handicrafts as a vital component of the Kingdom's intangible cultural heritage, "Banan" seeks to raise awareness of these art forms and ensure their preservation for future generations.
Building on the successes of its inaugural edition, "Banan" has garnered several international awards, reflecting its excellence in showcasing the aesthetic appeal of handicrafts through innovative artistic design. These accolades highlight Saudi Arabia's progress in elevating the status of designers and artisans on the global stage, showcasing the cultural and creative significance of handicrafts. This recognition underscores the Commission’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of artistic design in organizing heritage events, further enhancing the Kingdom’s reputation as a premier destination for creative design related to heritage.
Visitors to "Banan" will be immersed in a rich cultural experience, enabling them to interact directly with artisans and observe the intricate production processes behind handmade artistic pieces. This hands-on engagement will deepen their understanding of the cultural diversity that defines the Kingdom, enriching their knowledge of Saudi heritage and traditions. The exhibition also serves as a unique opportunity to connect visitors with the national cultural identity, ensuring its transmission to future generations.
The Saudi Heritage Commission emphasizes that "Banan" represents a forward-thinking vision to support and empower the handicraft cultural sector, positioning it as a significant contributor to the Kingdom’s economy. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Culture Strategy derived from Saudi Vision 2030. Through this event, the Commission reiterates its commitment to fostering an encouraging environment for artisans and creatives, thereby enhancing their sustainable development.
Looking ahead, the Commission aspires for "Banan" to establish itself as a leading cultural exhibition both locally and internationally, attracting a diverse audience passionate about heritage and handicrafts. The organization of the exhibition is made possible through strategic partnerships with Elm Company, the Executive Company, Nova Water Company, the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wirth), and the Saudi Crafts Company, all of which are dedicated to enhancing the role of handicrafts in enriching the cultural landscape and ensuring a sustainable future for the sector.