Saudi Gazette report

DHAHRAN — The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) this week launched a COVID-19 Exhibit. It is a collection of thoughts, memories and reflections on the COVID-19 pandemic experience by people from across the globe.

The COVID-19 Exhibit begun as a virtual show highlighting objects that were particularly significant to members of the public during the pandemic.

Examples being sought by Ithra include newly-made works of art or images of objects of particular importance: a pen, a photo of loved ones or relatives, a diary, a musical instrument, a book, a note from a family member. Ithra is seeking a wide variety of submissions. In 2021, objects selected by the museum’s curators from the online submissions will be on display at Ithra in Dhahran.

“While this is an unprecedented time, it is also an unprecedented moment of global solidarity,” noted Ithra’s Head of Museums, Laila Faddagh. “The COVID-19 Exhibit is an opportunity for the global community to tell our stories during this complicated and difficult time.

Art is about connecting people through culture – and culture is based on the exchange of ideas and identities – but we connect maybe even more easily through common objects. We can all understand the personal value of family photos, a special mug, a note from an important friend, a musical instrument, a favorite painting, your camera, the pen you use to write in your diary... just as we understand Charlie Brown’s friend Linus and his security blanket.

The COVID-19 Exhibit is a platform where you can express yourself and explain your pandemic experience so you can connect with people around the world – and they can connect with you.”

She added: “The COVID-19 Exhibit is intended to be a forum for creativity and self-expression for everyone. Ithra is in Saudi Arabia, but, as a leading center for global culture, we want to include people from around the world. In the spirit of welcome, warmth and empathy – especially now during the pandemic – it is an opportunity to connect with everyone, from anywhere.”

The goals of the COVID-19 Exhibit includes offering a platform to share objects that are meaningful to people and their stories, providing perspective on the effects of COVID-19 on ourselves and our relationships with objects. Also connecting cultures and creating dialogue through international participation and encouraging self-expression and creativity.

The COVID-19 Exhibit will go live to the public in July. The curated exhibition of objects will be open in 2021 at a date yet to be announced. The submission page of the COVID-19 Exhibit is open.