‘Echoes of Time’ exhibition: An artistic exploration of Saudi Arabia’s archaeology

‘Echoes of Time’ exhibition: An artistic exploration of Saudi Arabia’s archaeology
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The Goethe-Institut in Riyadh, in partnership with the German Embassy and the German Archaeological Institute, or DAI, in Berlin, recently opened “Echoes of Time,” an exhibition marking the 20th anniversary of DAI excavations in Saudi Arabia. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
‘Echoes of Time’ exhibition: An artistic exploration of Saudi Arabia’s archaeology
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Some of Saudi artist Daniah Al-Saleh’s artwork exhibited at the ‘Echoes of Time’ exhibition in Riyadh. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
‘Echoes of Time’ exhibition: An artistic exploration of Saudi Arabia’s archaeology
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The Goethe-Institut in Riyadh, in partnership with the German Embassy and the German Archaeological Institute, or DAI, in Berlin, recently opened “Echoes of Time,” an exhibition marking the 20th anniversary of DAI excavations in Saudi Arabia. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
‘Echoes of Time’ exhibition: An artistic exploration of Saudi Arabia’s archaeology
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The Goethe-Institut in Riyadh, in partnership with the German Embassy and the German Archaeological Institute, or DAI, in Berlin, recently opened “Echoes of Time,” an exhibition marking the 20th anniversary of DAI excavations in Saudi Arabia. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
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Updated 26 September 2024
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‘Echoes of Time’ exhibition: An artistic exploration of Saudi Arabia’s archaeology

‘Echoes of Time’ exhibition: An artistic exploration of Saudi Arabia’s archaeology
  • The event marks the 20th anniversary of German Archaeological Institute’s excavations in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: A new art exhibition inspired by early archaeological exploration in Saudi Arabia has opened in Riyadh.

The Goethe-Institut in Riyadh, in partnership with the German Embassy and the German Archaeological Institute, or DAI, in Berlin, recently opened “Echoes of Time,” an exhibition marking the 20th anniversary of DAI excavations in Saudi Arabia.

Curated by Salma Al-Khalidi, the exhibition displays work from Saudi artist Daniah Al-Saleh and German artist Susanne Kriemann.

“The Saudi art scene is fantastic,” Al-Saleh told Arab News. “It’s alive and expanding, with numerous opportunities for artists thanks to the support of the Ministry of Culture and the government.

“It’s an amazing time to be an artist, especially with the backing of the German Archaeological Institute and the German Embassy. This exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our work and collaborate with fellow artists.”

The opening reception was held on Sept. 24 at 6:00 p.m. and was attended by Michael Kindsgrab, the German ambassador to Saudi Arabia, along with several members from the German Embassy and DAI.

Set against the archaeological landscapes of Tayma and AlUla, the exhibition encourages viewers to perceive the desert as a place where history and modernity intersect, emphasizing the significance of environmental stewardship in global discussions about history and ecology.

Al-Saleh’s artwork, “A Stone’s Palette,” utilizes carnelian beads from ancient sites like Rujum Sa’sa’ and Tell Saq, blending ancient materials with contemporary techniques to create mixed-media pieces.

“Initially, my proposal focused on the Nabatean queens, but the German archaeologists were more interested in the Bronze Age. In our discussions, I discovered that carnelian beads were consistently found at various sites. In Tayma, there’s a carnelian bead factory that dates back about 5,000 years, leading me to shift my focus to these beads,” Al-Saleh explained.

Susanne Kriemann’s work, “Datadust Skin on Sand,” contrasts ancient artifacts with modern waste found in Qurh and Tayma. Her photographic prints combine archaeological discoveries with microplastics, shedding light on the environmental impact of plastic pollution in desert landscapes and offering a nuanced perspective on contemporary ecological issues.

Kriemann described her process: “I began early one morning when it was still dark, taking photos of a mountain every 10 minutes, capturing a hidden watchtower. I selected about 12 images depicting the slowly rising sun mirrored in the tower’s colors. I used Datadust textile, which is employed in archaeological sites, to create layers in my work.”

The exhibition is running at the Ahlam Gallery in Riyadh from Sept. 24 to Oct. 7, 2024.


All-women ranger team leads Saudi royal reserve’s 5,000th patrol

All-women ranger team leads Saudi royal reserve’s 5,000th patrol
Updated 04 October 2024
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All-women ranger team leads Saudi royal reserve’s 5,000th patrol

All-women ranger team leads Saudi royal reserve’s 5,000th patrol

RIYADH: An all-women team of Saudi environmental rangers has led the 5,000th patrol of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve in the Kingdom’s northwest.

Andrew Zaloumis, the reserve authority’s CEO, said that women are “breaking new ground” at the 24,500 sq. km site “one patrol at a time.”

Ranger teams play a significant role in protecting the environment, but are also involved in women’s empowerment efforts that are a focus of the reserve, Zaloumis said in a statement.

“Globally, women rangers are recognized as vital for conservation success, but gender inequalities and challenges persist,” he added.

“At Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, women make up 30 percent of our 183-strong Saudi ranger team — well above the global average of less than 11 percent.”

Women’s leadership is behind the success of empowerment efforts, he said, citing women in senior management positions and a specialized unit in social and economic development that allows local women to become environmental conservation leaders.

“We are building the next generation of conservationists, equipped with the specialist skill set necessary to conserve Saudi Arabia’s endangered wildlife and wild landscapes,” Zaloumis said.

The all-women ranger team, which was appointed two years ago, is paving the way for new career positions for women in the Kingdom.

Ghaida Al-Balawi, one of the rangers, told Arab News about some of the team’s achievements.

“The most significant achievement since joining the team has been successfully raising the level of environmental awareness among local and international visitors, as well as protecting certain endangered species such as the Arabian partridge and the hawksbill turtle. This was accomplished through our effective environmental protection patrols,” she said.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve contains 15 distinct ecosystems across its mountain ridges, life-giving wadis and Red Sea coral reefs.

The reserve launched a development plan two months ago, publishing a road map covering environmental, economic, social, cultural and tourism targets.


KSrelief provides training for earthquake victims in Turkiye’s Hatay

KSrelief provides training for earthquake victims in Turkiye’s Hatay
Updated 04 October 2024
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KSrelief provides training for earthquake victims in Turkiye’s Hatay

KSrelief provides training for earthquake victims in Turkiye’s Hatay
  • The third and fourth volunteer training programs were for members of the Syria and Turkiye communities
  • The training for 91 people took place between Sept. 29 and Oct. 4, with 20 volunteers participating

RIYADH: Volunteers from the Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief have provided training for earthquake victims in Hatay province, Turkiye, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.

The third and fourth volunteer training programs were for members of the Syria and Turkiye communities.

The training for 91 people took place between Sept. 29 and Oct. 4, with 20 volunteers participating.

Since the campaign’s launch, advanced economic empowerment courses have been offered including sewing and embroidery, refrigeration and air conditioning, multimedia technology, graphic design, and computer maintenance.

In addition, other support included therapy sessions, psychological empowerment, and first aid training.

This was provided for 217 people including the sighted and visually impaired.


Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief volunteers conduct heart surgery in El Salvador

Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief volunteers conduct heart surgery in El Salvador
Updated 04 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief volunteers conduct heart surgery in El Salvador

Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief volunteers conduct heart surgery in El Salvador
  • The operations were conducted between Sept. 26 and Oct. 3 by eight medical specialists

RIYADH: A volunteer medical team from the Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief has performed 20 specialized vascular and catheterization operations in San Salvador, El Salvador, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.

The operations were conducted between Sept. 26 and Oct. 3 by eight medical specialists.

The volunteer program is a part of Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian efforts, through KSrelief, to provide aid to those in need around the world.


Experts show off skills at Riyadh culinary event 

Experts show off skills at Riyadh culinary event 
Updated 03 October 2024
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Experts show off skills at Riyadh culinary event 

Experts show off skills at Riyadh culinary event 
  • Sirha Arabia gathered 300 exhibitors from the Kingdom and around the world to share their expertise in the culinary and hospitality sectors

RIYADH: In collaboration with the Culinary Arts Commission and the Saudi Conventions & Exhibitions General Authority, Sirha Arabia gathered 300 exhibitors from the Kingdom and around the world to share their expertise in the culinary and hospitality sectors on Thursday.

“The experience is extremely positive: Sirha brought to Arabia a very high-profile audience and the organization has been premium, we could feel its quality,” Vittorio Rocchi, the CEO of Sitaf Saudi Co. for Trade, told Arab News.

Sitaf was established in 1976 and currently has a list of more than 3,000 products.

It was one of the main exhibitors presenting during Sirha Arabia with two large booths.

The company showcased live cooking shows in their kitchens offering guests the opportunity to sample pizzas, pasta, dairy products, and seafood.

“There is a fantastic production of fresh sushi and sashimi with dedicated Japanese chefs,” Rocchi told Arab News. “The highlight was the live cutting of a 180 kg fatty tuna, performed by a professional tuna cutter. Simply amazing,” he said.

The Kingdom is working to expand its position as a global player in the catering and hospitality sectors embracing international trends while showcasing local and international products and companies such as Sitaf.

Sirha Food is organized by Sirha Lyon, a globally renowned food service event, taking place every two years in Lyon, France.

The event has expanded to include Saudi Arabia on its list of host countries.

“This is the first time ever for Sirha in KSA and we believed a lot in it. We will continue our path with Sirah for the years to come and grow together,” Rocchi said.

Sirha Arabia consisted of 60 speakers and three pavilions: the Sirha Food Forum, the Sirha Food Masters, and Newcomers for exhibitors presenting for the first time.

The exhibition also served as a one-stop shop for chefs and businesses looking to start a restaurant or expand their at-home culinary portfolio.

The exhibition also hosted a masterclass in macaroons led by the executive pastry chef, Steve Thiery, and other international chefs.

Discussion sessions were hosted which highlighted topics such as Saudi and intentional flavor fusions, “inspiring the next generation of culinary and hospital experts,” dairy trade and export, and navigating the challenges of different markets.

Discussing the reactions of visitors, Rocchi said: “Most visitors were amazed by the size and display of the booth, but most importantly they were impressed by the chefs cooking at the live stations.

“They could enjoy the best flavors of Italian cuisine and this made everyone really happy,” he added.

“For sure, Sitaf is the leading Saudi company in gourmet food,” he stressed. “Sitaf has a range of 70 percent Italian products, we are very proud to be representing this country in the Kingdom. But Sitaf is more, we consider products all over the world as long as it is genuine and high quality,” he said.

On trade relations between Saudi Arabia and Italy, Rocchi said: “We would like to see more Saudi products expand their market share in Italy, I am sure they will because they are of very high quality.” 

He added: “On our hand, we will work to help Saudi brands and products improve and increase, it will work very well.“


‘Riyadh Reads’: Pakistani panelists at book fair push for cultural diplomacy

‘Riyadh Reads’: Pakistani panelists at book fair push for cultural diplomacy
Updated 03 October 2024
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‘Riyadh Reads’: Pakistani panelists at book fair push for cultural diplomacy

‘Riyadh Reads’: Pakistani panelists at book fair push for cultural diplomacy
  • Annual Riyadh International Book Fair began Sept. 26, ends Oct. 5
  • Over 2,000 publishers from 30 countries are participating in event

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani panelists at Saudi Arabia’s largest annual book fair said this week “cultural diplomacy” could open new arenas of cooperation between the two nations as they called for more quality translations of literature in the Arabic and Urdu languages and an exchange of writers and artists.

The Riyadh International Book Fair, themed “Riyadh Reads” and spread over 800 pavilions, is organized yearly by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission.

It began on Sept. 26 and runs to Oct. 5, with over 2,000 publishing houses from 30 countries participating, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The schedule includes seminars, panel discussions, poetry recitals, stage performances and workshops.

On Tuesday, the fair hosted a panel titled “Shared Voices: Literature and Art as Bridges of Culture and Understanding.”

It featured Ahmad Farooq, ambassador of Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, Suljuk Mustansar Tarar, ambassador of Pakistan to the Netherlands, and Ameena Saiyid, a well-known Pakistani publisher and the founder of the famed Karachi Literary Festival.

The panel was moderated by Yazed Almulhem, a strategic planning consultant with the Saudi Tourism Investment Company.

“Saudi Arabia and Pakistan historically shared close ties, but cultural diplomacy offered a new vista of deepening the relationship even further, as cultural affinities brought people together,” the Pakistani embassy said in a statement shared with media on Wednesday.

In pursuance of these efforts, the embassy said it was “meaningfully engaged” with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture through 11 cultural commissions, and several projects were in the pipeline.

Speaking to Arab News, ambassador Tarar, an author and the son of renowned writer Mustansar Hussain Tarar, said books “unified nations” and thus better translations were necessary for cross-acculturation.

“Having quality translations of good fiction and literature in Arabic and Urdu is very important to develop a stronger understanding of each other,” he said.

The author said the book fair was a “great opportunity” for an engaging conversation on culture’s role as a “bridge builder,” and its impact on fostering understanding across different societies and cultures.

“The messaging was very useful that indeed arts and literature can provide a great opportunity to connect different countries, especially countries from the wider Islamic world or Global South,” Tarar added.

“It is a very important tool for countries like us, such as Pakistan or even Saudi Arabia, to proactively pursue public diplomacy or cultural diplomacy in bringing forth the overall context of our society.”

Another panelist, Saiyid, a publisher and former managing director of the Oxford University Press, said literature festivals were essential as a “platform for cross-cultural dialogue.”

“They encourage us to engage with unfamiliar perspectives by listening to diverse voices, and through that, we actually break down stereotypes, and we foster greater understanding across borders,” she told Arab News over the phone from Riyadh.

“In our discussion, I actually emphasized the importance of exchange programs that bring artists and writers from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia and vice versa, as this fosters understanding, helps us appreciate different viewpoints, and breaks down existing stereotypes.”

Saiyid, who in 2005 became the first Pakistani woman to be awarded the Order of the British Empire for her services to women’s rights, education, and intellectual property rights, said she hoped more Arab writers and artists would visit Pakistan.

This would allow them to “become a part of our festivals, which will help to promote understanding of cross-cultural literature and art,” she added.