Jeddah, February 16, 2025 — The second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 is drawing art enthusiasts and cultural explorers from all over with its vibrant and engaging cultural program, which offers a multifaceted exploration of the rich and diverse history of Islamic art. Taking place at the iconic Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, the event has captured the attention of visitors from a wide range of age groups, creating an atmosphere of learning, discovery, and creative expression.
Organized by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 boasts an impressive lineup of interactive cultural experiences, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the world of Islamic art through four distinct cultural paths. One of the key features is the "Art Lab," which serves as a dynamic space for dialogue and creativity. Here, visitors can participate in engaging art studio visits, hands-on workshops, professional courses, and stimulating dialogue sessions with renowned artists and cultural figures. This immersive environment encourages active participation in the creative process while providing a deeper understanding of Islamic art’s intricate traditions.
Another pivotal aspect of the Biennale is the "Research Room," where artists and scholars gather for specialized lectures and discussions on the intersection of art and research. The room facilitates deep intellectual exchanges that shed light on the scholarly side of Islamic art, its history, and its evolution over the centuries. This exchange of knowledge aims to foster greater appreciation and insight into Islamic artistic practices, helping to preserve and propagate their significance.
The "Studio Youth" initiative is specifically tailored for families and younger visitors, offering educational lessons and creative workshops designed to spark curiosity and imagination. With its interactive programs, the Biennale provides young minds with a hands-on opportunity to explore art and culture, nurturing the next generation of artists and thinkers. Additionally, the "Biennale Encounters" provides a platform for thought-provoking conversations between artists and audiences, encouraging discussions on the role of art in society and its transformative power in shaping cultural narratives.
In addition to these interactive cultural paths, the Biennale presents a range of specialized exhibitions and workshops that showcase the depth and breadth of Islamic art. Notable among these is the "Cinema Nights," presented in collaboration with the Red Sea Film Foundation, which offers film screenings that explore themes central to Islamic culture and history. These screenings serve as a bridge between visual storytelling and cultural exploration, providing a multi-dimensional perspective on Islamic artistic expression.
The event also features hands-on courses in traditional Arabic crafts, sculpture, and ceramic tile-making, giving visitors the chance to learn about and engage with time-honored artistic techniques. Additionally, guided tours and discussions hosted by Al-Madar offer valuable insights into the art’s cultural context, further enriching the experience for attendees.
A particularly extraordinary highlight of this year’s Biennale is the interactive display of the Kiswa of the Holy Kaaba, organized in collaboration with the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques. This exhibit showcases the intricate craftsmanship and spiritual significance behind the sacred cloth that drapes the Kaaba, a central symbol of Islamic tradition. The Kiswa display offers a rare and deeply moving glimpse into the meticulous artistry that goes into creating this revered object, which holds immense cultural and religious significance for Muslims worldwide.
With its multifaceted programming and immersive cultural experiences, the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 is not only a celebration of Islamic art but also an opportunity to engage with art’s power to shape cultural identity, foster dialogue, and inspire future generations. As visitors continue to flock to the event, the Biennale stands as a testament to the enduring relevance and beauty of Islamic artistic traditions in the contemporary world.
