Ithra Announces Second Edition of the Islamic Art Conference: "In Praise of the Artisan”
DHAHRAN, SAUDI ARABIA, November 2024 – The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is set to host the second edition of its Islamic Art Conference from November 24-26, in partnership with the Abdullatif Alfozan Award for Mosque Architecture. Under the theme In Praise of the Artisan: A Reassessment of Contemporary Islamic Arts & Crafts Practice, the event aims to spotlight the evolving landscape of Islamic arts and craftsmanship across the Arab world.
The conference will feature over 50 participants and 27+ speakers from more than 13 countries, bringing together a diverse array of artisans, scholars, and cultural leaders. The focus will be on reviving traditional crafts, recognizing artisans as artists, and fostering a renewed appreciation for Islamic decorative arts. Through ten themed symposiums, the two-day program will cover topics ranging from the preservation of cultural heritage to the role of crafts in shaping modern identity and sustainability.
Highlights of the Conference Program:
- Day 1 (November 25) will explore the future of crafts in Saudi Arabia and the broader Islamic world, featuring panels on the role of local artisans and the significance of preserving endangered heritage. Attendees will enjoy guided tours of masterful craft exhibitions and sessions on documenting the lives of artisans through film and photography.
- Day 2 (November 26) will delve into the intersection of crafts, urban environments, and societal impact. The agenda includes discussions on museum roles in preserving artisan traditions, the importance of patronage in sustaining crafts, and interactive sessions with artisans to gain insights into their practices.
In addition to the core conference, a public program from November 24-30 will offer free exhibitions, film screenings, and workshops. Highlights include the premiere of In Praise of the Artisan, a documentary commissioned by Ithra that journeys through the lives of Islamic artisans, and an exhibition featuring historical masterpieces alongside contemporary commissioned works. Curated by renowned experts, this exhibition will include rare items such as 18th-century wooden interiors from Damascus and textiles like the 20th-century kiswa of the Ka'ba.
Workshops on geometric patterns, embroidery, and wood carving will provide hands-on experiences, allowing participants to engage directly with traditional Islamic art forms.
The event aligns with Ithra's mission to preserve cultural legacies, promote creative talent, and engage global audiences. Abdullah Alrashid, Director of Ithra, stated, "By activating all of Ithra’s principal spaces and bringing together multiple disciplines, we aim to celebrate the profound heritage of Islamic arts while supporting artisans and inspiring new generations."
To know more about the Islamic Art Conference and its full program, please visit [www.ithra.com](https://www.ithra.com)
