Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — The annual program at the Jameel House of Traditional Arts/Jeddah culminated on Wednesday with the opening of an exhibition of new works by the program’s participating artists.

The exhibition features two major works produced collectively by the participating artists as well as a wide selection of works made individually.

The show will run until June 5 and is open daily from 9:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., according to a press statement issued by Art Jameel on Wednesday.

The central works in the exhibition are a full-size mihrab (prayer niche) and roshan (traditional wooden window-frame) that draw on the rich heritage of the Old Town (Al-Balad) of Jeddah.

The works demonstrate the participants’ skills in craft and traditional design and their potential to contribute to restoration projects in the Old Town and across Saudi Arabia.

The works also incorporate contemporary influences, reflecting the ethos of creative design inspired by tradition that underpins the program.

Antonia Carver, Director of Art Jameel, said, “The scale and sophistication of the pieces are testimony to the role that alumni can play in supporting the restoration of the built heritage of the Old Town. The works are complemented by the participants’ individual pieces, which feature contemporary designs and mix of media and crafts.”

The one-year program, which is delivered by the Prince’s Foundation’s School of Traditional Arts, includes modules on geometry and nabati design, as well as the crafts of mangour, gypsum carving and ceramics.

Much of the participating artists’ work from throughout the year will be on display at the exhibition, and reflects the diversity of media — woodwork, ceramics, painting and gypsum — and the exciting blend of contemporary design and traditional influences.