An arts festival in the holy city of Makkah started on Monday with the aim of promoting traditional craftwork of the Hejaz, the western region of Saudi Arabia that is home to the cradle of Islam.
Sponsored by Saudi Post, the exhibition is titled “Fathers: Crafts. . . a Future for a New Generation” showcases regional craft, including written works, traditional weaving and beadwork and, of course, regional cuisine. One feature of the event provides fair-goers the opportunity to learn about the making of the black silk cover of the Kaaba, which is ornately decorated with Qur’anic verses.
According to the organizers of the event, the goal is not only to exhibit regional craftwork, but also to promote the artists that are preserving these talents. The event is a combination of an arts festival and a trade exposition; it is hoped by local officials that the event will encourage local retail stores to buy locally made products. Doing so would provide a positive means of income for people devoted to these arts.
Despite the name of the event, “Fathers”, it aims to promote the livelihoods of men and women alike. The Women’s Society Service Center in Makkah is participating.
“(The event) shows the different jobs that Makkah housewives do,” said Shadia Janbi, a spokesperson at the center.
Aziza Abdul Kadir an advertising executive and the media coordinator of the exhibition said that this exhibition exposes the visitors to a unique experience, a place where people can see the different products of Makkah, a multi-cultural urban center and magnet for the Muslim Ummah.
This melting pot, said Abdul Kadir, has given the Makkans unique characteristics and provided them with various skills in different areas of arts and crafts.