Latest news with #TraditionalArts
Arab News
19-07-2025
- General
- Arab News
Training program in Asir focuses on traditional wall decoration
RIYADH: The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, known as Wrth, in collaboration with Soudah Development Co., has opened registration for a specialized training program on Al-Qatt Al-Asiri art. This centuries-old art form, traditionally painted by women on the walls of homes in the Asir region, features murals with straight lines, triangles, circles, and squares. Al-Qatt Al-Asiri gained international recognition in 2017 when it was added to UNESCO's Lists of Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Scheduled for July 27-31 in Asir, the program lets participants explore the history and aesthetics of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, learning the traditional methods with geometric patterns and engravings inspired by the local environment. It also offers hands-on training in creating natural colors and mastering traditional techniques, the SPA added. The Arabic term 'qatt' means lines, carvings, or cuttings, and represents the detailed interior work done by women. Colors flow gracefully from their hands in a style known as qattatah, forming patterns based on the nature of the surface. Drawing inspiration from local culture, it showcases intricate geometric patterns reflecting the landscape and the vibrant colors of nature. Artisans use colors derived from limestone, clays, plants, or powders, prepared with stabilizers and gloss agents. Primary red, yellow, and blue are complemented by green, orange, white, and black.
Arab News
15-07-2025
- General
- Arab News
Madinah exhibition showcases local heritage, crafts
RIYADH: The 'Arts Telling Stories' exhibition in Madinah showcased the nation's culture and history through authentic handicrafts. The three-day event, which ended on Tuesday, is among several 'Year of Handicrafts' initiatives launched by the Ministry of Culture, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The exhibition featured a diverse collection of handcrafted creations reflecting the identity of the local community. Elements of heritage were embodied in palm-based crafts including baskets, incense burners, and decorative pieces, illustrating the historical bond between people and the environment. The event also showcased wooden artworks, including decorated boxes, vases, and household items crafted with techniques blending traditional sensibility and modern innovation. It featured pottery pieces inspired by folk art, drawing from the colors and landscapes of the region's geography, the SPA reported. The exhibition reflects the ministry's efforts to promote traditional arts, foster community awareness, and encourage young people to connect with their cultural roots.
Arab News
14-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi royal institute opens registration for traditional arts programs in Riyadh
RIYADH: The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, or Wrth, has opened registration for six specialized academic programs in collaboration with leading international universities and academies, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday. The programs aim to preserve Saudi traditional arts, promote their global presence and support the Year of Handicrafts 2025, in line with the Kingdom's cultural development goals. Offerings include master's degrees in traditional furniture design, costume design for performances, museum and exhibition curation, and digital heritage, as well as a higher diploma in traditional product development and an intermediate diploma in choreography. Programs last one to two academic years and are held in person at Wrth's Riyadh headquarters. There are no tuition fees, the SPA reported. The programs combine theory and practice to prepare specialists to transform the traditional arts sector into a sustainable cultural and economic resource. Wrth invites interested applicants to register and review program details at with studies beginning at the start of the academic year. The institute works to promote national identity, enrich Saudi traditional arts, recognize talent in the field, and encourage the mastery and development of these crafts. Meanwhile, Wrth is taking part in the Saudi Cultural Week at Expo 2025 Osaka in Japan, which runs until July 15. The initiative aims to promote Saudi traditional arts internationally, support entrepreneurs and offer interactive experiences to the public, in line with the Year of Handicrafts. The event also marks 70 years of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan, reflecting the strong cultural ties between the two countries, and fostering new opportunities for collaboration and creativity. Wrth's program features activities blending Saudi and Japanese cultures in a contemporary style while preserving the authenticity of each tradition, the SPA reported. A live demonstration by Saudi artisan Salman Al-Hamad and Japanese artisan Yuho Ohkota showcases Al-Ahsa Bisht embroidery applied to a Japanese kimono in a modern artistic form. The participation also includes a workshop where visitors can craft a Japanese fan decorated with Saudi-inspired patterns using innovative stamps designed by Fidaa Al-Amri, a Wrth graduate with an advanced diploma in traditional product development.
