Latest news with #Ithra
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Ithra makes its mark at inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh in KSA
As Saudi Arabia asserts itself as a global hub for contemporary design, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) showcased its impact on the Saudi creative ecosystem at the inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh, until May 23. From being a key voice in one of the fair's most thought-provoking panels to delivering the fair's only hands-on workshops, Ithra spotlighted the power of design to foster creativity, community and cross-cultural exchange. Three Ithra-backed installations were put on view. They were developed through Tanween, Ithra's flagship annual design event and included Adeem, a sculptural work reflecting on memory and materiality; IWAN Pavilion, an architectural structure rooted in Islamic design principles; and Open Segments, a modular exploration of space, movement, and reuse. Previously exhibited in Milan Design Week, Concentrico International Festival of Architecture and Design in Spain and Dubai Design Week, the works were shown in Riyadh to engage new audiences and spark fresh dialogue in the local design scene. In the workshops, Ithra offered sessions in silkscreen printing, sustainable packaging, and modular folding. Open to all ages and backgrounds, they invited participants to experiment with technique and explore design as a tool for creative problem-solving, reflecting Ithra's engagement-led approach to inspiring creativity. The workshops also offered participants opportunities to experiment with technique, explore form, and consider the role of design in addressing contemporary challenges. King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). As part of the public programme, Ithra's Head of Creativity & Innovation, Sultan Albadran, took part in a panel titled 'Fostering Community in a Fast-Forward Market'. Joined by representatives from the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, Saudi Artisanal Company and Iwan Maktabi, Albadran discussed Ithra's role in strengthening the design community in Saudi Arabia. The session explored the importance of building a vibrant design community and emphasised the role of creative education, mentorship, institutional support and cross-sector collaboration, in empowering emerging designers as they shape the Kingdom's design landscape. Albadran touched upon Ithra's ongoing efforts to create opportunities for designers to push their creative boundaries, engage across disciplines, and explore new forms of expression. He spoke of the contributions made through Ithra's programmes such as Tanween, Ithra's annual flagship design event, which, he said, have created spaces where experimentation is not only encouraged, but translated into real-world outcomes. Some of the results were on view for audiences to experience at Downtown Design Riyadh, in the form of the three installations, each piece exploring the potential of design to bridge references from Saudi material culture with globally resonant ideas in spatial and product design. Reflecting on the fair, Albadran said: 'Ithra is honoured to contribute to the inaugural edition of Downtown Design Riyadh, a historic milestone in the Kingdom's emergence as a global cultural hub. Our participation reflects Ithra's role within this thriving ecosystem, nurturing creativity and offering meaningful opportunities for designers to engage with global audiences.' Albadran has been working in the culture and arts industry for more than 10 years, and was named an ambassador for the King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism. He is a member of the Al Khobar Art Committee and the Saudi Society for Urban Sciences. Panelists at the panel discussion. He has contributed to developing the strategy of Ithra's Idea Lab and the Tanween creativity conference and has represented the Center at many local and regional events. Albadran has been selected as a trainer, creative arbitrator, jury member and developer of programmes such as the F1 in Schools national competition, hosted annually at Ithra. As the Saudi debut of the Middle East's leading contemporary design fair, Downtown Design Riyadh provided the ideal setting for Ithra to showcase its efforts towards building a rich creative ecosystem, with design serving as a medium for meaningful storytelling, material exploration, and dialogue across sectors and borders. The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is a leading cultural destination located in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. It focuses on enriching people's lives by offering impactful cultural and creative programmes and initiatives. Since its opening in 2018, it has become a distinguished architectural landmark which houses the Idea Lab, Library, Theater, Museum, Cinema, Great Hall, Energy Exhibit, Children's Museum and Knowledge Tower. Tanween is Ithra's annual flagship design event, dedicated to motivating and inspiring a new generation of innovators. Through an industry-focused roster of workshops, courses, and a design competition, it offers professionals and enthusiasts, opportunities to network, discuss, and collaborate. It is a key pillar that cements Ithra's position as a beacon of culture that nurtures creativity and promotes cross-cultural exchange. Downtown Design Riyadh (May 20 — 23) at JAX District, marked the debut of Saudi Arabia's first fair dedicated to contemporary and quality design. Held in partnership with the Architecture and Design Commission of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture, it brought together a curated selection of international brands, regional studios, and emerging creative talent, reflecting the Kingdom's growing position in the global design landscape. The fair was complemented by a collateral programme, including creative installations, engaging activations and pop-up experiences, alongside a line-up of talks tailored to the local context and burgeoning design scene, catering to a high-calibre audience, from industry professionals and developers to local homeowners and design enthusiasts, looking to discover, buy or commission. JAX District has successfully transformed the industrial heritage site in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, into a vibrant hub for artists and creatives. What was once known for unique mud-brick architecture, has now been reborn as the creative hub of the Saudi capital, beckoning talents to showcase their work. Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer
Trade Arabia
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Trade Arabia
Ithra shines at debut Downtown Design Riyadh
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is participating in the inaugural edition of Downtown Design Riyadh, the Kingdom's first fair dedicated to contemporary, high-quality design, with a presentation that highlights how its creative programs foster exploration, community engagement, and cross-disciplinary dialogue. At the event, which runs until until May 23 at JAX District, Ithra was a key voice in a dynamic panel discussion themed 'Fostering community in a fast-forward market.' The session explored the importance of building a vibrant design community and emphasizing the role of creative education, mentorship, institutional support, and cross-sector collaboration in empowering emerging designers as they shape the Kingdom's design landscape. Ithra's Creativity & Innovation Unit Head, Sultan Albadran, joined the panel alongside senior culture and design leaders from the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, the Saudi Artisanal Company and Iwan Maktabi, a legacy family brand specializing in antique and contemporary carpets, to share Ithra's contributions in design. Albadran touched upon Ithra's ongoing efforts to create opportunities for designers to push their creative boundaries, engage across disciplines, and explore new forms of expression. He spoke of the contributions made through Ithra's programs such as Tanween, Ithra's annual flagship design event, which have created spaces where experimentation is not only encouraged but translated into real-world outcomes. Some of these outcomes are on view for audiences to experience at Downtown Design Riyadh, in the form of three installations: Adeem, IWAN Pavilion, and Open Segments. Originally developed through Tanween, each piece explores the potential of design to bridge references from Saudi material culture with globally resonant ideas in spatial and product design. Ithra not only facilitated their creation, but has also extended their journey beyond Ithra's walls with their exhibition at Downtown Design Riyadh, building on previous showcases at Milan Design Week, Concéntrico International Festival of Architecture and Design in Spain and Dubai Design Week. The installations are accompanied by a public workshop series run by Ithra that has attracted participants of all ages and backgrounds. These are the only hands-on workshops taking place at Downtown Design Riyadh, and reflect Ithra's engagement-led approach to inspiring creativity. Sessions include modular folding structures, silkscreen printing, and sustainable packaging, offering participants opportunities to experiment with technique, explore form, and consider the role of design in addressing contemporary challenges. Reflecting on the fair, Albadran said: "Ithra is honoured to contribute to the inaugural edition of Downtown Design Riyadh, a historic milestone in the Kingdom's emergence as a global cultural hub. Our participation reflects Ithra's role within this thriving ecosystem, nurturing creativity and offering meaningful opportunities for designers to engage with global audiences."
Asharq Al-Awsat
12-05-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Film Commission Participates in 78th Cannes Film Festival
The Saudi Film Commission is participating in the 78th Cannes Film Festival in France from May 13 to 24 with a Saudi pavilion and an official delegation alongside key partners, including the Ministry of Investment, Film AlUla, NEOM, the Cultural Development Fund, MBC Studios, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), and the Red Sea International Film Festival. Established in 1946, the Cannes Film Festival is one of the world's most prestigious cinematic events, attracting broad international participation from filmmakers each year. The Saudi pavilion will feature a booth for private production and distribution companies to boost their international presence and highlight opportunities for collaboration and investment. The commission will engage in several panel discussions and dialogue sessions featuring leading decision-makers and influencers in the film industry. They will include a session titled "Pioneering Paths: How Filmmakers Can Forge Their Own Futures" and "Saudi Films – Work in Progress," which will showcase films currently in production. A roundtable titled "The Business of Film Production" will also discuss the economic aspects of the film industry. A networking session titled "Meet Saudi Creatives" and a brunch event titled "Cinematic Exchange" will bring together commission representatives and the private sector to highlight major accomplishments in the local film sector and explore opportunities for collaboration. This strategic participation is part of the Saudi Film Commission's ongoing efforts to develop the local film sector, empower Saudi talent, and build an effective network of relationships that support the Saudi film movement and represent it on major global platforms.
Leaders
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Takes Part in Malmö Arab Film Festival
Saudi Film Commission is currently participating in the Malmö Arab Film Festival in Sweden from April 29 to May 5, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The participation seeks to boost the Kingdom's presence of Saudi cinema on the international stage. As part of the 'Arabian Nights' event, the commission has organized a tour in (7) cities belonging to (3) Scandinavian countries to display numerous Saudi films. Malmö Arab Film Festival Launched in 2011, the festival showcases approximately (80) feature, short and documentary films from all over the world. Moreover, it features sections for competitions and special screenings along with workshops and seminars. During the festival, the commission seeks to highlight the Saudi cinematic identity, support local creators, and forge effective partnerships with international cinema institutions. Related Topics: Japanese Yamamura Holds Masterclass at Saudi Film Festival Celebrating Identity: Ithra to Host 11th Saudi Film Festival in April Saudi Arabia Joins Berlin International Film Festival 2025 Short link : Post Views: 1 Related Stories
Campaign ME
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Campaign ME
Cultural programming in Saudi Arabia through experiences
Since 2018, Saudi Arabia has been engaged in a profound and wide-ranging conversation with itself about its identity and place in the world. Culture has been and continues to be at the forefront of that conversation. Across art, music, sports, gaming, literature, heritage, crafts, museums and media there is a visceral energy. Having spent eight years in Saudi Arabia as Head of Events for Ithra, Aramco's Centre for World Culture in Dhahran, I got to witness firsthand the beginnings of the country's remarkable cultural resurgence. In common with many countries in the Gulf, the cultural landscape is defined by a top-down approach with significant subsidy and direction from the government about cultural and creative entities and cultural manifestations – including live events. Where Saudi perhaps differs is that with a large and young population that is majority Saudi there is also plenty of grass roots activity; indeed, there always has been, albeit not so obvious as it is now. Saudi nationals are not just importing ready-made culture but are taking cultural forms from elsewhere and adapting them to the specific Saudi context. Saudi manga is a prime example. It is visual art, music and film – historically, the most important forms in terms of reference material for marketers and advertisers – where Saudi is carving out its own identity and getting noticed across the world. 'Saudi Arabia is informing the global cultural ecosystem from its unique perspective.' Vision 2030 has enabled huge investment in cultural forms and intellectual property (IP) and it is paying off. Perceptions of the country are changing, driven in part by a culturally charged series of campaigns by Visit Saudi and promotion of major events such as Noor Riyadh, Al Ula Arts Festival and MDL Beast that have all grown to be internationally recognised and globally influential. Riyadh Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034 will only serve to stimulate further interest and engagement with a burgeoning cultural and creative sector. The Islamic Biennale in Jeddah is a prime example of how Saudi is informing the global cultural ecosystem from its unique perspective. The intersection of fine art and faith is as compelling and moving as any exhibition I have seen in recent years – not least because the work from an extraordinary range of global artists is imbued with meaning that transcends aesthetics or form. It is further evidence of a true cultural Renaissance. This renaissance – in the sense of a re-engagement and realignment of cultural values and forms combined with an extraordinary affinity with digital technology and a voracious appetite for content – has created a rich environment for those of us who work in the creative, cultural and communication sectors. It would be wrong to characterise the sense of new beginnings in Saudi Arabia as signifying a lack of cultural maturity or to see the Saudi market as simply some gold rush boom town. Filmmakers, for example, have been around for a very long time there and have honed their craft in sometimes difficult circumstances. Saudis are great communicators and very good storytellers with a nice line in ironic humour – take a look at the work of Telfaz 11 on Netflix. There is even a specific initiative QSAS, dedicated to immersive storytelling. As a result, Saudi nationals respond to good storytelling, especially work that has the ring of authenticity, and an attention to detail and sophistication; international agencies take note, coffee pots and camels will not win you work. Heritage plays its part, but it is a heritage that is complex and multifaceted with very distinctive regional differences – and like the Arabic language difficult and time consuming to fully comprehend and highly nuanced. Saudis are not only building a distinctive contemporary Saudi cultural identity but also taking time to communicate that to themselves and the wider world. The proliferation of conferences, summits and symposia on cultural subjects ranging from youth empowerment to digital wellness has been a new and developing capability for us at Jack Morton and has given us access to the cross currents of culture. In our other work – brand activations, launches and live events – there has not been one project, be it the inauguration of a new Saudi airline, the FIFA World Cup Host Nation announcement or adidas' retail activation in a major gaming tournament, that has not had a clear and specific cultural brief from the client. One cultural and societal shift has been the increasing role of women in the wider workforce and especially in the cultural and communication sectors across government entities and commercial operations. Bright, well educated, multilingual and culturally savvy women are running companies, museums, galleries, cultural initiatives marketing departments, festival and event teams and controlling significant spend across all aspects of experiential. They are expecting you to turn up with your A-game and an informed point of view, and expect to see Saudis and other women in key positions on the other side of the table. A recent PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) article aligning cultural heritage with business growth highlighted the enormous economic benefits that come from investment and promotion of culture and cited Morocco and Japan as countries that have followed similar strategies to Saudi Arabia with great effect. Saudi Arabia has 150 cultural facilities in the pipeline, representing $80bn by 2030, all focused on its objective to be a cultural hub, to diversify its economy and provide meaningful employment for its young, energetic workforce. For us, in the business of creating culturally relevant experiences, this is great news both as opportunity for growth but also for creative inspiration and some of the most interesting work you can find in the communications sector today. My own professional 'rebrand' from Executive Creative Director (ECD) to Executive Culture and Programming Director shows how seriously we at Jack Morton are taking this. By Stephen Powell, Executive Culture and Programming Director, Jack Morton UAE and KSA
