Latest news with #IslamicArtBiennale
Trade Arabia
20-05-2025
- Trade Arabia
Amaala unveils ‘A Story of Flourishing' – a new look at luxury wellness
Amaala, the luxury wellness destination on Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast, has unveiled 'A Story of Flourishing', an expression of its vision to redefine what it means to live well in today's world. Introduced during the second edition of the Islamic Art Biennale in Jeddah, the paper offers a renewed perspective on wellbeing — one that looks beyond the individual to embrace deeper connections with place, purpose, and the natural world. Set within one of the world's most pristine natural environments, destination Amaala brings this philosophy to life. Shaped by the rhythms of the Red Sea and Saudi cultural heritage, it offers a sanctuary for stillness, reflection, and reconnection in a fast-moving world. The destination as a movement Opening this year, Amaala is a new blueprint for purposeful travel. Designed to harmonise with the region's protected marine and desert landscapes, the destination invites guests into a layered experience that blends healing, heritage, and adventure across land and sea. Its immersive ecosystem will offer guests access to wellness modalities ranging from advanced longevity therapies and cryotherapy to desert meditation, sound healing, and artistic expression. 'We believe flourishing goes beyond wellness — it's about creating the conditions for life to expand, for people and ecosystems to grow in harmony,' says Lindsay Madden Nadeau, Senior Director of Wellness Strategy at Amaala. 'With A Story of Flourishing, we're inviting the world to rediscover the joy of intentional living—rooted in nature, guided by culture, and shaped by community.' Inspired by nature, rooted in culture From the mineral-rich Red Sea waters to the meditative vastness of the desert, Amaala's surroundings are inherently healing. Across coves, coral reefs, and ancient canyons, the natural rhythms of the land invite reflection, restoration, and reconnection. Amaala's design draws deeply on Saudi Arabia's timeless traditions of retreat, storytelling, and renewal—blending these cultural practices with a forward-looking vision of modern luxury. Every experience is crafted to honour the natural world and the wisdom of those who have lived in harmony with it for generations, creating a profound sense of place where past and future meet. An invitation to flourish Amaala is a place where the natural world shapes every experience. Powered entirely by renewable energy and committed to a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040, the destination is designed not only to preserve its surroundings—but to actively enrich them. Here, learning from the land and sea becomes part of the journey, offering guests the rare chance to connect with something lasting. Guests can explore the vibrant underwater world at Corallium, a pioneering marine life institute; reconnect with nature along the Wellness Route, a thoughtfully designed trail linking resorts with spaces for contemplation and discovery; and sail from the elegant Amaala Yacht Club, set to become a new icon on the Red Sea. A curated collection of world-leading hospitality and wellness brands—including Jayasom, Rosewood, Six Senses, Equinox, Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, Clinique La Prairie, and Nammos — will bring Amaala's vision of flourishing to life, offering extraordinary journeys in healing, exploration, and renewal. Celebrating the Art of Flourishing at the Biennale Amaala's unveiling of 'A Story of Flourishing' forms part of its official partnership with the Islamic Art Biennale, where it is hosting a dynamic programme of workshops and talks exploring art, architecture, and wellbeing.
Trade Arabia
11-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Trade Arabia
Amaala partners with Islamic Art Biennale in second edition
Amaala, the ultra-luxury wellness and cultural destination taking shape along the Red Sea coast, will host a compelling program of workshops and thought-provoking talks at the prestigious Islamic Art Biennale (IAB) in Jeddah. Bringing together renowned experts, artists, curators, and thought leaders, Amaala will feature a dynamic public realm enriched with commissioned artworks, key cultural assets across visual and performing arts, as well as a lively calendar of cultural programming reflecting Amaala's commitment to fostering creativity and heritage in Saudi Arabia. Running from April 12 to mid-May 2025, a series of talks hosted by Amaala in collaboration with Islamic Art Biennale will include Seeds of Connection, Topographies of Heritage, and Biophilia and the Architecture of Wellbeing, each offering unique perspectives on how design, culture and the natural world intertwine. The partnership also features interactive workshops for children and parents, such as The Junkyard Art Factory, which encourages creative thinking by transforming recycled materials into works of art. Through these discussions, experts will explore how design enhances wellbeing, how nature can be seamlessly integrated into artistic and architectural practices to promote environmental regeneration, and how regional and Islamic architectural principles continue to shape contemporary design. By championing these conversations, Amaala strengthens its vision of creating a destination where wellness, design, art and culture intersect, driving both artistic expression and sustainable innovation. With its pristine natural surroundings, Amaala is built around the pillars of Environment, Wellbeing, Arts and Culture. While actively protecting and regenerating the ecosystem, it offers a world-class wellness experience set within thoughtfully designed public spaces and architecture. The destination is enriched with high-calibre art commissions that honour local histories, stories and traditions, serving as key cultural assets for both visual and performing arts, alongside a vibrant cultural programme. Now in its second edition, the Islamic Art Biennale, launched in 2023, has quickly established itself as one of the region's most significant cultural events, celebrating the depth and diversity of Islamic artistic expression under this year's theme, 'And All That Is In Between.' Bringing together contemporary and traditional artists from across the Muslim world and beyond, the exhibition explores the intersection of art, spirituality, and heritage, offering a compelling dialogue on material culture and artistic traditions. Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind Amaala, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Red Sea region, from its vibrant music and dance traditions to its deep-rooted maritime legacy. Recent initiatives include the Red Sea Waves music album—a sonic tribute to the civilizations that have flourished along the coastline—and the launch of the Red Sea Classic Sailing Race in October, a two-day event showcasing the art of traditional sailboat racing.
Arab News
20-03-2025
- Arab News
Saudi artist Rana Alsaggaf: ‘I hope my work inspires people to explore these places'
JEDDAH: Rana Alsaggaf has carved her own space in the Saudi art scene with her intricate sketches of landmarks from across the Kingdom. With a background in interior design and master's degrees in entrepreneurship and innovation as well as international art and culture management, her practice is deeply rooted in both technical knowledge and a passion for heritage. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ Recently, she had the honor of showcasing her work at the second Islamic Art Biennale in Jeddah, an experience she describes as both meaningful and humbling. 'It's an opportunity to present my work in a space that celebrates the intersection of faith, culture, and artistic expression,' she told Arab News. Alsaggaf is showcasing 'Sacred Journeys' at the biennale, which runs until May 25. It is a collection of works that visually narrate the journey from Jeddah to Makkah, a path traveled by millions of pilgrims. It was installed at the Jeddah Airport Pilgrims Gateway, a setting that naturally resonated with the work. 'This route is more than just a road, it is a transition into a sacred experience,' Alsaggaf explained. 'By sketching its key landmarks, I wanted to highlight the gateways that pilgrims pass through on their way to Makkah. I hope my work inspires people to explore these places and to connect with their history in a way that feels tangible and relevant today.' Alsaggaf's artistic process always begins with firsthand exploration. She visits the sites, sketches on location whenever possible, and refines her compositions by focusing on perspective, architectural details, and the emotions these places evoke. Research also plays a key role in her work; she digs into the history of each landmark, uncovering stories that add depth to the experience. To enhance this connection, with each artwork she includes a card sharing insights about the location. By keeping her color palette minimal, she ensures the focus remains on the form, history, and character of each landmark. Alsaggaf chose to highlight the pilgrimage gates because of their historical and functional significance, as well as their strong connection to the Islamic Art Biennale's location. 'These gates mark important entry points for travelers and pilgrims, making them both symbolic and relevant. Each one represents a threshold, a moment of arrival and transition on the journey to Makkah,' she said. Through her art, Alsaggaf hopes to spark curiosity and inspire people to visit these sites, experiencing their significance firsthand. 'I want my sketches to create a sense of connection,' she stated. To enhance this connection, she draws from an eye-level perspective, making viewers feel as though they are standing right in front of the landmarks. Her illustrations act as a bridge between the past and present, preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Hajj. 'These places are not just remnants of the past; they continue to welcome travelers and pilgrims every day. Through my art, I want to ensure they remain part of our cultural dialogue,' Alsaggaf said. While her work is rooted in direct observation, Alsaggaf takes care to research each site's historical context. However, rather than reconstructing what no longer exists, she prefers to depict landmarks as they stand today, emphasizing their continued presence and relevance. 'The biggest challenge is capturing the depth of the experience in a way that feels immediate and real. I wanted my sketches to reflect the emotional weight of the journey while staying true to the landmarks' current state,' she explained. 'Balancing simplicity with meaning was key.' Jeddah's Rawasheen, the intricately carved wooden balconies found on historic buildings, have been a recurring theme in Alsaggaf's work. Beyond their striking appearance, they represent the layered history of Jeddah as a gateway for travelers and pilgrims. 'For me, they are windows into the soul of the city, reflecting both its past and its living heritage,' she said. These ornate facades are a symbol of craftsmanship, cultural exchange, and architectural identity — elements that Alsaggaf is passionate about preserving through her sketches. Alsaggaf uses her Instagram page, Wings Over Saudi, to share her art — which includes paintings as well as sketches — with a wider audience. The name was inspired by a legendary Jeddah folktale involving seagulls, and reflects her artistic vision of movement, exploration, and perspective. 'It represents the way I approach my art, not just as static images, but as invitations to discover Saudi's landscapes, cities, and cultural landmarks,' she explained. Her collection of paintings titled 'Reflections of Jeddah' is a tribute to the coastal city's historic streets. Created in her studio within Jeddah's heritage district, the series captures the play of light, shadow, and intricate designs that define its acclaimed architecture. 'Through these works, I aim to preserve Jeddah's historic charm while celebrating its enduring cultural significance,' she said. Another series, 'Sketchbook Journey,' highlights the wider Kingdom's diverse architecture, from grand mosques to ancient alleyways. 'Each piece in this series honors Saudi Arabia's architectural legacy, preserving its beauty for future generations while encouraging a deeper appreciation for the artistry and heritage that define the Kingdom,' she said. Alsaggaf sees endless opportunities to continue exploring and documenting her homeland. 'There are so many incredible landmarks still to capture,' she said. 'I want to keep sketching, discovering, and sharing the beauty of these places with others.'
Arab News
24-02-2025
- Business
- Arab News
What do biennales and auctions mean for the future of Saudi Arabia?
The Islamic Art Biennale is the first biennale dedicated exclusively to Islamic art. It tells a story that spans centuries, continents, and cultures. It is a celebration of Islamic art and a blueprint for how culture can drive economic growth, promote global dialogue, and preserve heritage. With contributions from institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Bruschettini Foundation for Islamic and Asian Art, the biennale is a living archive of Islamic heritage. The event, held in Jeddah, brought together a collective of cultural luminaries, serving as a vehicle for cultural diplomacy. Biennales influence social ecology by shaping cultural discourse and encouraging cross-cultural exchange. There are roughly 240 biennales worldwide, and each one serves a purpose. Some market cities, others boost tourism, and many help consolidate cultural infrastructures in metropolises. For smaller towns, biennales invariably act as a spotlight, repositioning them on the cultural map. Biennales, in essence, wield strategic influence — a form of soft power that creates meaningful connections on a global scale. The Islamic Art Biennale, however, is in a league of its own. It is putting Jeddah on the map, and it is redefining what a biennale can do. By hosting the event at the Hajj Terminal — a site that won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1983 — the biennale creates a communal space where visitors can engage directly with Islamic art and each other. By making use of existing structures like the Hajj Terminal, the biennale preserves heritage and sets the stage for a resurgence of cultural and economic activity in the region. By bringing global art markets to the region, such events create opportunities for local artists, dealers, and patrons, fostering a vibrant cultural and creative economy. Biennales are economic engines, and the Islamic Art Biennale is no exception. Hotels, restaurants, and transport services all benefit from the influx of visitors. Cities hosting these events often experience a surge in employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly. These ripple effects frequently lead to urban regeneration, transforming areas into thriving cultural hubs. Improved infrastructure and the development of cultural facilities leave a lasting legacy, making cities more attractive to visitors, investors, and residents alike. The Islamic Art Biennale also displays the growing ecosystem of art and culture in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom recently hosted its first auction, a significant milestone in its cultural evolution. This event was Sotheby's inaugural auction in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the region's growing importance in the global art market. By bringing global art markets to the region, such events create opportunities for local artists, dealers, and patrons, fostering a vibrant cultural and creative economy. Sotheby's went the extra mile to ensure accessibility and engagement; they also hosted an enlightening series of talks on the history of Middle Eastern art. In an increasingly digital world, the Islamic Art Biennale and the Sotheby's sale remind us of the enduring power of face-to-face interaction. It is about the conversations they spark, the connections they foster, and the communities they build. The real challenge lies in ensuring that these events leave a lasting legacy. From my experience, I have seen that the success of such initiatives requires careful planning, strategic investment, and a deep understanding of their long-term implications. The key is to build a sustainable cultural infrastructure — one that nurtures local talent while attracting global attention. And if the early signs are anything to go by, the Kingdom is passing with flying colors. But the real question is: what comes next? How does Saudi Arabia build on this momentum? How does it ensure that these events are part of a broader cultural strategy that positions the Kingdom as a global leader in the arts? These are the questions that will determine the long-term impact of cultural initiatives. And in a world that's constantly changing, the answers will shape not just Saudi Arabia's future but the future of international culture itself. • Dr. Ghadah W. Alharthi is an international cultural adviser and an associate professor specializing in culture and innovation at Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London. X: @ GhadahWA
