The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is hosting the second Islamic Art Conference from November 25 to 30, themed “In Praise of the Artisan.” Featuring 50 participants from 14 nations, including 27 speakers, the event explores the intersection of heritage and modern innovation.
Highlights include interactive workshops, panel discussions, and live demonstrations. Visitors can experience “In Praise of the Artisan,” an exhibition displaying historical and contemporary art forms like ceramics, textiles, and wood carvings. Accompanying this are three curated films showcasing artisan stories, followed by filmmaker discussions.
Dhai Ibrahim Al-Otaibi, a prominent Naqda embroidery artist, remarked, “Naqda embroidery signifies a critical aspect of Saudi cultural identity… I hope to make this craft accessible to new generations while preserving its authenticity.”
Collaboration with global institutions further enriches the program, showcasing regional Islamic crafts, while renowned speakers like Dr. Mahmoud Erol Kilic and artist Ahmad Angawi address challenges faced by artisans today.
The conference, alongside its exhibits, runs until 2027, offering a platform to celebrate and sustain Islamic art’s timeless legacy.
