Jeddah's First Islamic Arts Biennale Showcases Global Islamic Art Legacy

Mar 14, 2023

Jeddah's first Biennale at historic Old Jeddah Airport, highlighting Saudi art and culture. (Source: Shutterstock)

Jeddah’s inaugural Biennale transforms the historic Old Jeddah Airport into a vibrant celebration of Islamic art and culture.

The First Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah is a landmark event celebrating the rich and diverse legacy of Islamic artfrom across the globe. Running from January 23rd to April 23rd, 2023, this biennale marks a pivotal moment in the Islamic art world, as it is the first large-scale international exhibition of Islamic art since the 1976 World of Islam Festival in London.

A Unique Location: Western Hajj Terminal, Jeddah

Situated at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, the biennale offers an immersive experience akin to a pilgrimage. The venue's proximity to Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, adds a profound sense of spirituality. The terminal’s iconic tent-like structure enhances the mystical ambiance, making it the perfect setting for such an exhibition.

Theme: “First House”

The biennale brings together over 60 artists from Saudi Arabia and around the world under the theme “First House.”This concept highlights the cultural and metaphysical significance of the Holy Kaaba in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah. These sacred sites are not only spiritual anchors for Muslims but also central to the formation of Islamic identity and a sense of belonging.

A Dialogue Between Art and History

Through contemporary artworks and historical artifacts, visitors can reflect on the enduring impact of these sacred spaces. The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged to evoke personal and communal experiences of Islamic rituals, including Hajj. This thematic curation creates a seamless connection between the past, present, and future of Islamic culture.

South African architect Sumayya Vally's design encapsulates a journey from darkness to light, resonating with spiritual and historical themes in Islamic culture. (Source: Shutterstock)

A New Perspective on Islamic Art

The Islamic Arts Biennale takes a groundbreaking approach to presenting art by featuring diverse perspectives, including spiritual and contemporary viewpoints. This initiative represents a significant shift in how Islamic heritage is presented in Saudi Arabia, fostering inclusivity and dialogue among local and international audiences.

The biennale also highlights Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote cultural awareness, a key aspect of its Vision 2030 reform plan. Learn more about Saudi Arabia's cultural transformation here.

Jeddah as a Cultural Hub

This event underscores Jeddah’s growing reputation as a cultural hub. As a gateway to Makkah, the city offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the beauty of Islamic art while being close to one of the most sacred sites in the world. The biennale is a prime example of how Saudi Arabia is blending tradition and modernity to foster global cultural exchange.

The artworks are arranged thematically to emphasize the exhibition's unity, evoking personal and communal experiences of Islamic rituals and Hajj. This unprecedented event has generated significant interest among the local population, attracting families and young people who are thoroughly enjoying this form of cultural entertainment.

The exhibition offers an unconventional approach to presenting art, featuring works from artists with diverse perspectives, including spiritual ones. This approach represents a significant shift in how Islam is presented in Saudi Arabia, opening up diverse viewpoints to Saudi and foreign visitors.

Why You Should Visit

The First Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah is more than just an exhibition—it is a transformative journey that bridges the gap between Islamic heritage and contemporary art. Whether you're a local resident or an international visitor, this event offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the splendor and intricacies of Islamic art.

"Salat al-Jama‘ah" by South African artist Igshaan Adams, is a blend of Islamic art and contemporary aesthetics, embodying communal prayer and unity. (Source: Shutterstock)

Such an approach is crucial in promoting greater cultural awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of Islam among the wider community. Jeddah's inaugural Islamic Arts Biennale is a momentous occasion that celebrates the beauty and heritage of Islamic art while creating a dialogue between the past, present, and future through contemporary artworks and historical artifacts.