Hajj Terminal in Jeddah to Host Islamic Arts Biennale
The second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale will take place at the Hajj Terminal in Jeddah from Jan. 25 to May 25. Organized by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, this edition delves into the experience, expression, and celebration of faith through various forms of art.
Exploring Faith Through Art
Titled “And All That Is In-Between,” this edition follows the success of the first Islamic Arts Biennale in 2023, which focused on “Awwal Bait” or “First House.” The upcoming event aims to showcase how faith is perceived and represented through emotions, thoughts, and creativity.
Global Participation and Artifacts
Over 30 institutions from around the world, including countries like Saudi Arabia, France, Egypt, Indonesia, the UK, and US, will participate in the showcase. The event will feature more than 500 historical artifacts and contemporary artworks, including pieces from Makkah and Madinah, on loan from prestigious museums like the Louvre in Paris and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
New Commissions and Artistic Contributions
The biennale will also present new commissions from over 20 artists and collectives, including Libyan artist Nour Jaouda. Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Culture, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, emphasized the transformative power of art and culture in bringing diverse communities together.
Curatorial Excellence and Unique Exhibits
Led by a team of curators, the Islamic Arts Biennale will feature exhibits on celestial navigation, Islamic gardens, and a design competition for a new prayer space. The Vatican Library will also participate in the event, showcasing rare works from its collections in a display titled “The Art of Numbers.”
Bridging Cultures Through Art
The collaboration between the Vatican Library and the biennale aims to promote dialogue and understanding among different cultures through the universal language of art. The event seeks to celebrate the diversity of artistic expressions within Islamic culture and create connections across various societies and perspectives.