#Saudi Arabia #Jeddah #Art Exhibition #Islamic Arts Biennale

Islamic Arts Biennale 2025: A Cultural Showcase in Jeddah

The highly anticipated second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale, titled And All That Is In Between, officially opened its doors to the public on January 27, 2025. This significant cultural event took place in the presence of His Excellency Rakan Bin Ibrahim Al-Touq, Saudi Arabia's Deputy Minister of Culture. As the only biennial exhibition dedicated exclusively to Islamic civilization, the biennale highlights the timeless relevance and contemporary interpretations of Islamic art.

One of the standout features of this edition is the presence of over 500 diverse works, brought together from more than 30 prestigious institutions worldwide. Notable contributors include renowned establishments such as the Vatican Apostolic Library, the Louvre in Paris, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Furthermore, the biennale collaborates with specialized institutions focused on Islamic arts, like the Ahmed Baba Institute in Timbuktu and the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. The exhibition also offers visitors a rare opportunity to engage with artifacts from the revered sites of Mecca and Medina through partnerships established across Saudi Arabia.

Situated across an expansive venue of 100,000 square meters, the biennale features five exhibition halls in addition to outdoor spaces. The curated selection showcases a blend of historical artifacts and contemporary artworks, promoting a dialogue between various artistic expressions. The participation of over 30 artists from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf region, and beyond enriches the diversity of the exhibition. Notably, for the first time, the full Kiswah, the traditional cloth covering the holy Kaaba, is presented outside of Mecca, adding to the significance of this event.

Artistic directors Julian Raby, Amin Jaffer, and Abdul Rahman Azzam, along with contemporary curator Muhannad Shono, guide the exhibit's vision, highlighting the dynamic interplay between global cultures and traditions. By juxtaposing historical Islamic objects alongside contemporary pieces, the biennale invites attendees to reflect on the multifaceted ways faith is experienced, expressed, and celebrated.

Jeddah, where this vibrant biennale is hosted, has long been a cultural crossroads, making it an ideal backdrop for such an important event. The site, located at the western terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, resonates with countless memories and emotions for millions of Muslim pilgrims undertaking their sacred journeys each year for Hajj and Umrah. The exhibit is open for public visits until May 25, 2025, providing an extensive timeframe for audiences to explore and engage with this remarkable confluence of history and modernity.

In conclusion, the 2025 Islamic Arts Biennale is not only a celebration of Islamic art and culture but also a platform for dialogue that transcends time and geography, showcasing how these rich traditions continue to inspire contemporary creativity. This biennale is a must-see for anyone interested in the vibrant intersections of art, culture, and history.