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

The Islamic Arts Biennale 2025: An Artistic Journey

The second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale, titled And All That Is In Between, officially opened its doors to the public in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, attended by high-ranking officials including His Excellency Rakan Bin Ibrahim Al-Touq, the Assistant Minister of Culture. This biennale marks a significant milestone as the only global exhibition dedicated exclusively to the rich arts of Islamic civilization.

This year's event embraces a more extensive approach, weaving together a tapestry of historical and contemporary artistic expressions from diverse cultures worldwide. The biennale has curated an impressive collection of over 500 objects, thoughtfully juxtaposed with new artistic commissions, prompting visitors to engage with the themes of faith, culture, and tradition in new and dynamic ways.

A Rich Collection from Esteemed Institutions

The 2025 Biennale has successfully gathered loans from over 30 leading institutions across the globe. Noteworthy contributors include prestigious establishments like the Vatican Apostolic Library, the Louvre Museum in Paris, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Additionally, significant collections focusing on Islamic arts, such as those from the Ahmed Baba Institute in Timbuktu and the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, have also made their mark at the exhibition.

This collaboration not only showcases the beauty of traditional artworks but also offers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural history of Islamic civilizations. Visitors will also find exclusive works from Islamic art collections situated in Saudi Arabia, including pieces intimately linked to the sacred sites of Makkah and Madinah.

Exhibition Layout and Highlights

Occupying a vast space of 100,000 square meters, the exhibition is divided into five distinct halls and outdoor areas, allowing an immersive journey through both history and contemporary interpretation. Among the standout pieces is the remarkable display of the Kiswah, the ornate cloth that covers the Holy Kaaba, which is being showcased outside Makkah for the very first time.

Under the guidance of Artistic Directors Julian Raby, Amin Jaffer, and Abdul Rahman Azzam, along with Saudi artist Muhannad Shono acting as the Curator of Contemporary Art, the biennale aims to highlight the intricate ways various cultures interact, endure, and celebrate their rich histories and traditions through art.

Jeddah: A Cultural Crossroads

Set in Jeddah, a city known as a bridge between cultures for centuries, the exhibition resonates with the stories and memories of millions who embark on their pilgrimage to Makkah and Umrah each year. The location, within the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, serves as a poignant reminder of the intersection of art, faith, and journey.

Visitors can expect thought-provoking installations, contemporary art pieces, and original historical artifacts that together create a dialogue about the experience of faith through artistic expression. The exhibition encourages a deeper understanding of how cultures intertwine while embracing their individual narratives.

Looking Ahead

The Islamic Arts Biennale is set to run until May 25, 2025, providing ample opportunity for locals and tourists alike to explore this fascinating intersection of past and present. As the event unfolds, it is certain to leave an indelible mark on both the art world and the cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia.

Whether you're an art enthusiast, a cultural scholar, or someone eager to experience the rich tapestry of Islamic history and contemporary art, the 2025 Islamic Arts Biennale promises to be an unforgettable experience.

For more information about the event and ticket bookings, please visit Diriyah Biennale Foundation's website.