Bringing Japan’s Cultural Heritage to Saudi Arabia

The program opened with a diverse lineup of music performances, workshops, exhibitions, and culinary experiences. Japanese Ambassador Morino Yasunari visited Ithra to explore the exhibits, meet artists, and emphasize the growing cultural relationship between the two nations.

“At Ithra, we believe in the power of cultural exchange and its lasting impact in fostering mutual understanding,” said Noura Alzamil, Ithra’s Head of Programs. “The Japan Cultural Days event is a testament to our commitment to global dialogue.”

Two exhibitions took center stage—one dedicated to traditional Japanese kimonos and another highlighting Japan’s automobile industry. The kimono display featured 17 exquisite pieces, including rare antiques from the Japan Kimono Museum in Fukushima, reflecting the artistry of different historical eras. The automotive exhibition showcased 15 classic and modern Japanese cars, with contributions from private collectors in Qatif.

Exclusive Performances and Interactive Experiences

A standout event was the debut performance of Drum Tao in Saudi Arabia. The world-renowned Japanese drumming ensemble delivered an electrifying show, blending Taiko drumming with flute and harp melodies. Ithra also hosted a variety of performances, including a Kabuki theater production and a Kendama showcase, blending traditional and modern Japanese arts.

Visitors explored Japan’s culture through immersive activities, including a metaverse journey to Tokyo, a Japanese bazaar featuring handmade crafts, and street food kiosks offering authentic flavors. The Japanese House Experience allowed attendees to participate in tea ceremonies and Wagashi sweet-making sessions.

Cinema enthusiasts enjoyed seven acclaimed Japanese films, including Oscar-winning Studio Ghibli animations The Boy and the Heron and Howl’s Moving Castle. A special screening of One Cut of the Dead featured an exclusive Q&A with writer-director Shinichiro Ueda.

Workshops and Cultural Dialogues

Fifteen hands-on workshops introduced participants to Japanese culinary arts, calligraphy, flower arranging, and manga creation. A highlight was the kintsugi workshop, where visitors learned the traditional art of repairing broken pottery with gold.

Panel discussions explored Japanese literature and cultural connections from a Saudi perspective. Topics included translating the works of Haruki Murakami into Arabic and a session led by Saudi travel writer Badr Al-Balawi.

Continuing Ithra’s Cultural Exchange Mission

Since its inception in 2018, Ithra has served as a gateway to global cultural experiences. The inaugural Cultural Days in 2020 highlighted Vietnam’s heritage, while the 2022 edition celebrated Cairo’s vibrant culture. With each edition, Ithra continues to strengthen cultural understanding and bring the world closer to Saudi audiences.

For more information on Ithra’s programs and upcoming events, visit www.ithra.com.

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Hands-On Creativity for Children

Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children presents Bait Al Khazaf, a dedicated space for pottery and ceramics. Designed to inspire young artists, the workshops include pottery-making, painting, and performing arts. Children can shape clay on a wheel, decorate candles, and design costumes while learning from theatre experts. The Centre for Musical Arts leads music sessions, and families can participate in a collaborative mural.

Ceramic Art Exhibition

Curated by Kamal Al Zoubi, Head of the Pottery Department at Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, Bait Al Khazaf features works by 55 Emirati and UAE-based ceramicists. Highlights include:

• Communication and Connection by Emirati artist Shamsa Juma, reflecting her search for perfection.
• Ibahar (Sailing) by Abdulla Al Hammadi, inspired by pearl diving.
• Calligraphy Mural by Pakistani artist Adeel Umar.
• Cultural Diffusion by Australian artist Alex Rawson, exploring cross-cultural exchange.
• Oryx the Survivor by Sudanese artist Amani Badur, symbolizing resilience.

The People of Determination Exhibition showcases inspiring works by artists with disabilities, highlighting their creativity and perseverance.

Literature and Visual Arts

Dubai Public Library’s School of Life initiative offers workshops such as:

• Ruq’ah Calligraphy by Mohammed Al Tamimi.
• Doors and Wooden Carvings by Dr Saeed Abdullah Al Wail, exploring Emirati craftsmanship.
• Sikka Folktales by Magdy ElKafrawy, bringing local stories to life on canvas.

Theatre and Folktales

The World Stage Design House (House 203) hosts theatre workshops, including:

• Puppet Workshop by Jacqui George, where children create shadow puppets.
• Lighting Workshop by Youmna Aboelella, teaching stage lighting techniques.
• Costume Design by Salma Lakharouti, using recycled materials.

At Masterpieces House – House of Folklore Tales (House 355), students from the Ministry of Education’s 2024 summer camp present artworks inspired by Kharareef (local folktales), blending tradition with modern creativity.

Festival Partners

The Sikka Art & Design Festival is organized in collaboration with Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development.

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Date:  19-21 December 2024
Venue: Roxy Cinemas Dubai, City Walk
Event Website: Russian-Film-Festival.com

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This exhibition features the works of 17 Saudi artists spanning multiple generations and artistic styles. The pieces, ranging from paintings to installations and video art, represent the vibrancy and diversity of Saudi creativity today. Some of the prominent artists featured include Sara Abuabdallah, Ghada Al-Hassan, Ayman Yossri Daydban, Ahmed Mater, Ayman Zedani, and Nasser Al-Salem, among others.

The “Art of the Kingdom” exhibition will eventually make its way to Riyadh in early 2025, where it will be showcased at the Saudi Museum of Contemporary Art in the JAX district. Later in the year, it will travel to the National Museum of China in Beijing.

Mona Khazindar, advisor at the Ministry of Culture, shared in a written statement to Arab News: “The exhibition is a testament to the profound impact that art has on our understanding of history, culture, and community. It not only honors our country’s past and collective memory, but also demonstrates the dynamic role art plays in connecting us to our shared identity, inspiring creativity and dialogue for generations to come.”

The exhibition’s curator, Diana Wechsler, emphasized the importance of exhibitions in expanding horizons and offering audiences new perspectives.

She explained, “Every exhibition must open new horizons for its audience, offering an experience of discovery and challenging habitual thinking. Exhibitions, to me, are also experiences of knowledge. This is especially important here, as this exhibition is the first to showcase a group of contemporary Saudi artists abroad.”

Wechsler handpicked Nasser Al-Salem’s striking “Arabi/Gharbi” (“Arab/Foreigner”) to open and close the exhibition. The large neon Arabic script in the piece serves as both a question and a clue, symbolizing the cultural divide between the contemporary Saudi experience and that of the international audience. “Through each piece, the exhibition unfolds like a revelation — a poetic illumination — exploring various facets of a captivating culture where past and present, tradition and transformation, are interwoven,” said Wechsler.

Muhannad Shono, one of the featured artists, reflected on Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the global art scene, saying: “As Saudi Arabia now invests in its arts and cultural expression, and strives to invite the world in, it’s important that this cultural dialogue does not flow in one direction, but to also reach outwards in an honest and equal exchange of ideas with the world. My role is to continue to express and imagine, not only in my country but beyond its borders … bypassing the perceived lines that separate us and divide.”

The exhibition also features a collaborative piece by artists Sara Abuabdallah and Ghada Al-Hassan, who are a mother-daughter duo. Their work, “Horizontal Dimensions,” explores themes of intergenerational complicity, urban transformation, and shared dreams. They see this exhibition as an opportunity to contribute to the global conversation about cultural exchange and the evolving narratives of their region.

The “Art of the Kingdom” exhibition is more than just a showcase of art; it is a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing effort to place itself at the forefront of global cultural exchange. The show’s impact is set to extend far beyond Rio, fostering greater international dialogue and appreciation of Saudi art and culture.

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Crafted using centuries-old methods, these sculptures, each over 13.5 feet long, feature 33 large ‘beads’ adorned with Emirati Khoos patterns and Palestinian tatreez embroidery. Symbolizing peace through motifs of palms and olive branches, the pieces integrate materials sourced exclusively from Pakistan.

The first sculpture, “Nakhl” (Palm Tree), employs carved wooden spheres embellished with hand-carved colored stones and hammered copper nails, revealing the natural grain of the wood. The second, “Zeitoun” (Olive), showcases brass spheres adorned with pietra dura-inspired techniques, using green serpentine rocks inset with repoussage on brass.

Created over four and a half months by 14 skilled artisans, the sculptures are threaded with organically dyed ropes and highlight the cultural exchange between Middle Eastern and South Asian traditions. Presented under Abu Dhabi Art’s Community Partners program, initiated by the Department of Culture & Tourism Abu Dhabi, the collection reflects 81 Designs’ commitment to supporting heritage crafts and marginalized artisans.

Nadine Maalouf, Co-founder of 81 Designs, remarked, “These intricately crafted works embody the fusion of traditional symbols, bridging cultural histories from the Middle East to South Asia. They exemplify the enduring creative exchange between these regions, showcasing mutual influence and inspiration over generations.”

Meherunnisa Asad, Artist and Artistic Director of Studio Lél, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Designing these sculptures was an opportunity to revive and celebrate the ancient art of pietra dura. By expanding our collaborations beyond Peshawar, we aim to revive indigenous crafts across Pakistan, honoring our cultural legacy while fostering innovation in contemporary art.”

The launch marks 81 Designs’ inaugural collaboration with a South Asian artist, underscoring its evolution from supporting tatreez artisans to championing diverse heritage crafts across global communities.

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Starting in 2025, two artists from the SWANA region will be selected annually to join the program, which is designed to provide emerging artists with the space, resources, and international exposure needed to further develop their artistic practices. Applications are open now through November 15, 2024, for artists seeking this career-enhancing opportunity.

Spearheaded by Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Qatar, the partnership aligns with QM’s broader vision of cultural exchange and artist support. The collaboration will help SWANA artists expand their creative networks, develop new works, and hone their skills in an international setting.

Zeina Arida, Director of Mathaf and a jury member for the program, expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, “Mathaf is proud to join the Akoje Residency in this exceptional initiative.

Our mission has always been to elevate modern and contemporary artists from the Arab world, and this program will give them the platform they need to reach global audiences.”

Founded by Lebanese art director Khalil Akar and Nigerian rugby player and art collector Maro Itoje, the Akoje Residency launched in April 2024 with the goal of creating pathways for artists from diverse backgrounds to thrive. The Dumfries House residency is their inaugural program, with plans underway for a reciprocal residency in Qatar for African and Caribbean artists in 2025.

Maro Itoje, co-founder of the Akoje Residency, commented on the significance of the collaboration: “We are thrilled to partner with Qatar Museums to build cross-cultural creative bridges. We look forward to welcoming SWANA artists to Dumfries House and exploring future possibilities for African artists in Qatar.”

Participating artists will benefit from access to skilled craftspeople, workshops, and materials, as well as the opportunity to share their work through open studios, talks, and exhibitions. The residency will take place at the scenic Coachford Cottage on the Dumfries House estate, providing an inspiring environment for creative development.

Artists interested in applying for the Akoje Residency x King’s Foundation Artist in Residence Programme can submit their portfolios at Akoje Gallery’s portal before the November 15, 2024, deadline.

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The unveiling, held at the newly named “UAE Park” on Nami Island, was attended by prominent figures, including His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, His Excellency Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi, UAE Ambassador to South Korea, and Mr. Fred Minn, CEO of Nami Island Arts & Education.

The monument symbolizes the deep-rooted Emirati heritage and highlights the growing cultural connections between the UAE and South Korea. It embodies Al-Ayyala, a traditional Emirati art form that represents the values and collective spirit of the UAE, passed down through generations. This step underscores the UAE’s dedication to preserving intangible cultural heritage and fostering global cross-cultural understanding.

A Key Element of Cultural Exchange with South Korea

During the ceremony, Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Musallam emphasized the importance of this cultural initiative, attributing its inspiration to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi. He highlighted that the monument serves as a cultural bridge that fosters understanding and exchange. “The Al-Ayyala monument stands as a key pillar in the journey of cultural exchange, reaffirming our strong ties with South Korea through a cultural symbol that reflects our rich heritage,” stated Al-Musallam. He also pointed out that the unveiling of the monument coincides with the 10th anniversary of Al-Ayyala’s recognition in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List.

A Shared Vision for Future Generations

His Excellency Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi echoed similar sentiments, expressing his pride in this event as a symbol of the UAE and South Korea’s shared cultural values. “It is with great pride and joy that we gather here for the unveiling of the Emirati sculpture, ‘Al-Ayyala,’ on the beautiful Nami Island,” he remarked. He added that the monument not only reflects artistic collaboration but also strengthens cultural bonds between the two countries. Al Nuaimi hopes that this event will inspire future generations to continue building bridges of friendship and understanding.

An Artistic Symbol of Unity

The stainless steel monument is crafted with a polished metallic finish and sits atop a marble-covered concrete base. It features seven interconnected pillars, symbolizing the unity of the UAE’s seven Emirates. Each pillar is engraved with the names of the Emirates in both Arabic and English, and handgrips representing the traditional sticks used in Al-Ayyala performances adorn the top of the structure. A central plaque displays the name of the UAE and provides a QR code linking to educational videos in multiple languages.

Future Cultural Activities

For the next decade, a series of cultural activities, events, and workshops will revolve around this monument, promoting Al-Ayyala and encouraging cultural awareness. Visitors to Nami Island will be invited to engage with Emirati traditions, enhancing the cross-cultural dialogue between the UAE and global visitors.

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Hosted at the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University Theater, the event launched with an opening ceremony attended by leading figures from the Gulf and Arab theater scenes. The festival’s week-long program includes a variety of competitive performances, workshops, and discussions, all aimed at fostering greater collaboration and elevating theater production within the region.

In addition to celebrating the performing arts, the festival recognizes notable contributions to theater with a series of awards.

Sultan Al-Bazie, CEO of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, speaking on behalf of Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, highlighted the festival’s cultural significance.

“The festival is a night of Gulf culture, celebrating theater as a platform for creativity that has enriched cultural memory and fostered collaboration between our sister nations,” said Al-Bazie. He also emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s leadership is dedicated to supporting cultural sectors, and the festival aligns with the Kingdom’s vision for advancing the Gulf theater scene.

“This event reflects our commitment to creating a thriving Gulf cultural landscape that enhances national identity, encourages dialogue with the world, and boosts the economic sustainability of the arts,” Al-Bazie added.

Al-Bazie further expressed optimism about the future of the festival: “The festival returns after an absence of eight years and is held periodically among the GCC countries. It will continue to grow stronger and evolve into institutional work to promote theatrical production, training, and joint efforts.”

With its diverse blend of performances, lectures, and cultural exchanges, the Gulf Theater Festival is poised to establish Riyadh as a central hub for regional artistic collaboration while ensuring a vibrant future for Gulf theater.

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Bali’s Yessiow Brings Vibrant Street Art to European Festivals

Born and raised in Bali, Yessiow showed artistic talent from an early age and began her career as a mural artist in 2013. With a background in graphic design, Yessiow has honed her skills and, together with her partner Stijn, leads a nomadic lifestyle, creating murals in countries including Italy, Greece, Austria, South Africa, and Spain. 

Indonesian Muralist Yessiow Showcases Art Across Europe in 2024

Yessiow’s 2024 European Tour, sponsored by Antangin and supported by the Ministry of Education and the Indonesian Embassy in Belgrade, includes participation in prestigious street art festivals such as DUK Festival in Serbia, UrbanAct in Athens, Urban Pictus in Brno and Prague, and Look Up Festival in the UK. So far, two festivals have been successfully completed: DUK Festival in Serbia and UrbanAct in Greece. This year marks the third year of Yessiow’s European Tour, with a focus on exploring new cultures in Eastern Europe. 

At the DUK Festival in Serbia, Yessiow became the first Indonesian artist to participate. Her piece “Each One Braid One,” created during the festival, depicts cherished memories with her mother, celebrating the importance of family and strong bonds. 

Yessiow’s 2024 European Tour Highlights Indonesian Street Art

In addition to being an active mural artist, Yessiow also works as a freelance illustrator and is the founder of Street Art Calls and Tangi Street Art Festival. On this tour, Yessiow aims to seize the opportunity to expand her network and friendships, while introducing the richness of Indonesian culture to the people of Eastern Europe through her work. She also incorporates Balinese motifs and local fabrics into her murals as a tribute to her cultural heritage. 

Through the 2024 European Tour, Yessiow hopes to bring the spirit of community and the richness of Indonesian culture to the international stage. She also aims to inspire Indonesian artists by showing that art can take us far, and to prove that women can succeed in the male-dominated street art industry.

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The Grand Egyptian Museum: A New Jewel in Cairo

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Cairo is one of the most anticipated cultural openings in recent years. Located near the Giza Pyramids, this monumental museum will house the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world.

A Vast Collection of Artifacts

The GEM will feature over 100,000 artifacts, including the complete Tutankhamun collection, many of which will be displayed for the first time. The museum’s design incorporates advanced technology to enhance the visitor experience, with interactive displays and immersive exhibits that bring ancient history to life.

Architectural Marvel

The museum itself is an architectural marvel, with a design inspired by ancient Egyptian motifs. Its grand atrium will showcase a colossal statue of Ramses II, welcoming visitors into a space that seamlessly blends history with modernity.

The House of Wisdom: Sharjah’s Beacon of Knowledge

Sharjah, known as the cultural capital of the UAE, has added another gem to its collection of cultural institutions with the opening of the House of Wisdom. This innovative cultural hub is more than just a library; it is a modern center for learning, creativity, and cultural exchange.

Modern Design and Facilities

The House of Wisdom features cutting-edge architectural design, with expansive glass walls that create an open and inviting atmosphere. Inside, visitors will find a vast collection of books, digital resources, and spaces designed for study, collaboration, and relaxation.

Cultural and Educational Programs

In addition to its impressive library, the House of Wisdom hosts a range of cultural and educational programs. These include workshops, lectures, and exhibitions that promote knowledge sharing and cultural dialogue. The facility also includes makerspaces, where visitors can engage in creative projects using the latest technology.

Impact on the Cultural Landscape

The opening of these new cultural spaces and museums is having a significant impact on the cultural landscape of the Middle East. They not only preserve and showcase the region’s rich heritage but also promote cultural exchange and education. These institutions are becoming important centers for tourism, attracting visitors from around the globe and contributing to the local economy.

Encouraging Cultural Tourism

Cultural tourism is a growing sector in the Middle East, and the opening of new museums and cultural spaces is playing a key role in this trend. The Grand Egyptian Museum and the House of Wisdom are expected to draw millions of visitors each year, boosting tourism and fostering greater international understanding of the region’s cultural heritage.

Promoting Cultural Dialogue

By offering spaces for learning and cultural exchange, these institutions are helping to bridge cultural divides and promote dialogue. They provide a platform for people from different backgrounds to come together, share ideas, and learn from one another.

Conclusion

The Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo and the House of Wisdom in Sharjah represent the future of cultural spaces in the Middle East. These new institutions are setting a high standard for cultural preservation, education, and innovation. As they open their doors to the world, they are not only enhancing the cultural landscape of the region but also fostering greater global appreciation for the Middle East’s rich and diverse heritage.

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