‘Modernity Roots’ art exhibition merges Saudi past and present

‘Modernity Roots,’ Bilory ArtHaus’ debut exhibition, is setting out to push boundaries in Saudi art, while also challenging stereotypes. (Supplied)
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‘Modernity Roots,’ Bilory ArtHaus’ debut exhibition, is setting out to push boundaries in Saudi art, while also challenging stereotypes. (Supplied)
‘Modernity Roots’ art exhibition merges Saudi past and present
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‘Modernity Roots,’ Bilory ArtHaus’ debut exhibition, is setting out to push boundaries in Saudi art, while also challenging stereotypes. (Supplied)
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Updated 17 October 2024
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‘Modernity Roots’ art exhibition merges Saudi past and present

‘Modernity Roots’ art exhibition merges Saudi past and present
  • Our cultural heritage is our ultimate powerhouse, says Bilory ArtHaus founder

JEDDAH: A new exhibition in Jeddah will “push boundaries” in the world of Saudi art, encouraging artists to challenge stereotypes and explore new horizons, its organizer believes.

Abdulrahman Kamil Mourad, general manager of the Bilory company and founder of Bilory ArtHaus, said the “Modernity Roots” exhibition will merge Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage with contemporary art practices, creating a dynamic platform for both artists and art enthusiasts.




AFM’s camel paintings utilize bold, African-inspired colors and Saudi symbols to explore a modern, progressive identity rooted in tradition. (Supplied)

The exhibition, the gallery’s first, draws inspiration from the Arabic term for origin and centrality, symbolized by the date stone, a revered element in Saudi culture, known for its vitality and unyielding strength.

“Modernity Roots is not just an exhibition, it’s a declaration of our roots and the unyielding power they instill within us as Saudis navigating the modern world,” Mourad said.

HIGHLIGHTS

• ‘Modernity Roots’ showcases the works of AFM and Heba Ismail, two prominent Saudi artists gaining wider recognition in the region.

• Bilory ArtHaus has positioned itself not only as a gallery, but also a creative space that promotes openness and innovation.

• Alongside its commitment to promoting art, Bilory Company also plans to launch an e-commerce jewelry platform.

“In a society eager to progress, this exhibition reminds us that our cultural heritage is our ultimate powerhouse, guiding us forward without losing sight of our origins.”




‘Modernity Roots,’ Bilory ArtHaus’ debut exhibition, is setting out to push boundaries in Saudi art, while also challenging stereotypes. (Supplied)

Mourad said that the exhibition is setting out to push boundaries in Saudi art, while also challenging stereotypes.

“The primary purpose of ‘Modernity Roots’ was to highlight that it is OK and desirable to be courageous and daring in the art production process, pushing boundaries and challenging the stereotypes surrounding Saudi art.

“Each artist embodies strong dedication and resilience, building on their rich Saudi cultural backgrounds, while exploring new horizons and opportunities,” he said.




‘Modernity Roots,’ Bilory ArtHaus’ debut exhibition, is setting out to push boundaries in Saudi art, while also challenging stereotypes. (Supplied)

The exhibition showcases the works of AFM and Heba Ismail, two prominent Saudi artists gaining wider recognition in the region.

AFM’s camel paintings merge pop art with cartoonish abstraction, utilizing bold, African-inspired colors and Saudi symbols to explore a modern, progressive identity rooted in tradition.

Ismail’s “The Holy Grail” series brings a cubist perspective to the theme of cultural identity and self-exploration, using modernist abstraction and striking colors to challenge perceptions and evoke deep emotional responses.

Together, their work creates a dialogue that bridges past and present, inviting viewers to reflect on the power of heritage in shaping the future.

Ismail said: “I’ve been involved with the team from the very beginning, and we spent months preparing for the launch.

“I contributed 23 paintings, all of which are very dear to me. The team was incredible. We became friends along the way, and the launch was a huge success.

“It was wonderful to work alongside AFM for the third time, and I love how our work complements and enhances each other’s.”

Mourad also explained Bilory’s approach to selecting artists for the inaugural exhibition, emphasizing a commitment to Saudi Vision 2030.

“From our perspective, there will never be a solid perfect choice when it comes to selecting art and artists; there are only different tastes and perspectives.

“Our main focus initially was to find creative Saudi artists who work with great passion. The main factor guiding our choice of these two artists was their alignment with our broader vision of participating in Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to create more cultural art spaces and improve the overall quality of life.”

Bilory ArtHaus has positioned itself not only as a gallery, but also a creative space that promotes openness and innovation.

Mourad outlined the gallery’s broader ambitions, saying: “We aim to create a balanced and harmonious gallery that fosters multi-talented artists who challenge themselves and inspire others to do the same.

“This creative space will feature diverse exhibitions, showcasing both well-established and emerging local Saudi artists, as well as hosting international artists.

“We strongly believe that Bilory ArtHaus will play a major role in shaping the local art scene by promoting and exposing outstanding available talents.”

Alongside its commitment to promoting art, Bilory Company also plans to launch an e-commerce jewelry platform.

The exhibition, open daily from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. until Nov. 15, offers visitors an immersive experience that highlights Saudi Arabia’s cultural evolution, and the enduring connection between tradition and modernity.

 


Specialists participate in international conference in Jeddah over the conservation of Red Sea turtles

Specialists participate in international conference in Jeddah over the conservation of Red Sea turtles
Updated 18 sec ago
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Specialists participate in international conference in Jeddah over the conservation of Red Sea turtles

Specialists participate in international conference in Jeddah over the conservation of Red Sea turtles
  • First-of-its-kind symposium an important step toward cooperation between Red Sea countries and international experts in facing environmental challenges
  • Participants reviewed the latest research and discussed issues related to the status of sea turtles in the region

JEDDAH: More than 90 academics and experts in environmental sciences and biodiversity conservation from 10 countries participated in the first International Symposium for the Conservation of Sea Turtles in the Red Sea.
The Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday that the symposium, which ran from Nov. 3-6 in Jeddah and titled “Moving toward the future … enhancing the protection of sea turtles in the Red Sea through science, cooperation and innovation.” was organized by the General Organization for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (Shams).
The first-of-its-kind symposium is an important step toward cooperation between the Red Sea countries and international experts in facing environmental challenges, because it reflects an urgent regional and global desire to enhance environmental sustainability and develop effective strategies to protect sea turtles in the Red Sea, in line with international environmental obligations and preserving the natural heritage of the Kingdom.
During the four-day event, participants reviewed the latest research and discussed important issues related to the status of sea turtles in the region, as well as means to find innovative solutions to the challenges they face, through lectures, presentations and interactive workgroups.
Seven of the most prominent international speakers gave keynote speeches, during which they presented their experiences and research expertise on protecting sea turtles and made recommendations aimed at enhancing the sustainability of this vital species in its natural environment.
The conference staged 31 presentations and four workgroups that addressed various topics, including assessing the strengths and weaknesses of efforts to protect sea turtles in the Red Sea, and identifying activities and procedures that contribute to developing a comprehensive action plan for the Red Sea.
In addition, the workshops during the symposium highlighted the importance of developing an integrated strategy to protect sea turtles in their breeding sites, especially in the Ras Baridi area, which faces critical environmental challenges.
Among the conference’s main priorities and outcomes, the development of a regional action plan for the conservation of sea turtles was discussed, in addition to bilateral initiatives between the Red Sea countries to rehabilitate beaches designated for turtle nesting and provide strategic support for future development plans.
It was also agreed to strengthen partnerships with universities to provide international supervision for Saudi students, and to establish local partnerships aimed at preserving important natural environments for turtles, especially in the Four Sisters islands, which were recently discovered by the Shams team and designated as a special area requiring environmental management to protect them.


Saudi Arabia leads Arab world in congratulating Trump

Saudi Arabia's King Salman sent a cable of congratulations to Donald Trump on his election victory. (AFP)
Saudi Arabia's King Salman sent a cable of congratulations to Donald Trump on his election victory. (AFP)
Updated 50 min 24 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia leads Arab world in congratulating Trump

Saudi Arabia's King Salman sent a cable of congratulations to Donald Trump on his election victory. (AFP)
  • King Salman wishes Trump and Americans ‘progress and prosperity’
  • Leaders of Jordan and Egypt urge Trump to help bring peace

RIYADH: Arab leaders congratulated Donald Trump on Wednesday after his comprehensive victory in the US presidential election.

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman sent a cable of congratulations to Trump, wishing him success and the “American people further progress and prosperity.”

The king praised the strong historical ties between the two nations, “emphasizing the shared desire to further strengthen these bonds in all areas.”

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also sent a cable to congratulate Trump. In a phone call later on Wednesday, the crown prince expressed the Kingdom’s aspiration to strengthen Saudi-US relations. He wished the American people progress and prosperity under Trump’s leadership.

The Republican made Saudi Arabia his first foreign visit after he took office for his first term as president in 2017. The visit underlined the importance of the historic US-Saudi partnership and cemented relations with Gulf allies.

Those countries congratulated Trump after he declared victory in a sweeping election win over Democrat Kamala Harris.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan offered “sincere congratulations to Trump and his running mate JD Vance.”

Skeikh Mohamed added: “The UAE and US are united by our enduring partnership based on shared ambitions for progress.

“The UAE looks forward to continuing to work with our partners in the US towards a future of opportunity, prosperity and stability for all.”

During Trump’s first term, his administration brokered the 2020 Abraham Accords deal under which Israel opened full relations with the UAE and a number of other Arab countries.

However, the devastating war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and its expansion into Lebanon has drawn widespread condemnation of Israel from regional leaders and dominated foreign policy discussion throughout the election campaign, with Trump promising to bring fighting to an end.

Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi said he hoped Trump’s return to the White House would help bring peace to the Middle East.

“I wish him all the success and I look forward to reaching peace together, upholding regional stability and strengthening the strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States,” El-Sisi said.

Jordan’s King Abdullah II also invoked the need for the next US president to work toward peace.

“Warmest congratulations to President Donald Trump on winning the US presidential election,” he said. “Looking forward to working with you again to bolster Jordan’s longstanding partnership with the United States, in service of regional and global peace and stability for all.”

Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the emir of Qatar, which is a key mediator in the Gaza conflict and hosts the largest US military base in the Middle East, said he looked forward to “working together again in promoting security and stability both in the region and globally.”


Saudi crown prince meets with Pakistani army chief in Riyadh

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman meets with  Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman meets with Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
Updated 06 November 2024
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Saudi crown prince meets with Pakistani army chief in Riyadh

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman meets with  Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
  • During the reception, Saudi-Pakistani relations and opportunities to develop them were reviewed
  • A number of issues of common interest were also discussed

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir in Riyadh on Wednesday, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

During the reception, Saudi-Pakistani relations and opportunities to develop them were reviewed. A number of issues of common interest were also discussed.

The meeting was attended by Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman and other officials. 


Saudi Arabia showcases tourism potential at London travel market

Saudi Arabia showcases tourism potential at London travel market
Updated 06 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia showcases tourism potential at London travel market

Saudi Arabia showcases tourism potential at London travel market
  • ‘Saudi Land’ pavilion promotes major investments, featuring luxury resorts and historic tourism developments
  • Jeddah Historic District Program is participating in the market from Nov. 5 to 7 to promote Jeddah as an international tourism destination

RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority Ahmed Al-Khateeb inaugurated the Kingdom’s participation in the World Travel Market in London with the “Saudi Land” pavilion.

The pavilion includes the Visit Saudi exhibition, organized by the Saudi Tourism Authority for the fourth consecutive year, supported by more than 70 partners in tourism, including destinations, hotels, airlines and travel companies.

Saudi Arabia’s presence at this global event highlights efforts to establish its status on the tourism map, showcasing rapid growth and record-breaking achievements in the sector.

The event promotes Saudi destinations, attracts diverse tourists, empowers the private sector and fosters strategic partnerships.

The Visit Saudi exhibition unveiled the Saudi Red Sea Destination, featuring Red Sea Global’s latest projects, aiming for 16 resorts this year and 50 by 2030.

The pavilion also offers interactive experiences showcasing Saudi hospitality, natural diversity, climate, culture, traditional attire, music and cuisine.

“Saudi Arabia, the fastest-growing tourist destination globally, seeks to solidify its leadership in world tourism, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals by highlighting unique destinations, new projects, and significant investment opportunities,“ Al-Khateeb said.

He added: Saudi Arabia is the largest global investor in the tourism sector.”

Saudi Tourism Authority CEO Fahd Hamidaddin said that Saudi Arabia was celebrating its tourism achievements and record-breaking growth at this leading international event.

The Kingdom aims to build on the success of the second phase of its global campaign, “This Land Is Calling,” targeting key markets, supporting partners and forging strategic partnerships with top global companies.

The Jeddah Historic District Program is participating in the market from Nov. 5 to 7 to promote Jeddah as an international tourism destination.

The program spotlights the heritage of the Jeddah Historic District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring historic architecture, mosques, markets, public spaces, museums, heritage restaurants and cultural landmarks.

The program offers authentic tourism experiences, including stays in restored heritage hotels, immersive historical tours and hands-on participation in local crafts.

The Hail Region Development Authority is participating to elevate Hail’s global tourism profile, promote its destinations, and empower partners to build strategic partnerships.

The Soudah Development Co. is showcasing its flagship project, “Soudah Peaks,” a luxury mountain destination on the Kingdom’s highest peak at 3,015 meters above sea level.

The Saudi delegation also includes representatives from key entities such as Tourism Development Fund, ASFAR, Cruise Saudi, Saudia airline, Riyadh Air, Red Sea Global, Diriyah Co., the Royal Commission for AlUla and NEOM.

At the market, Diriyah Co. signed strategic agreements with luxury operator Abercrombie & Kent and leading Saudi travel platform Almosafer. These collaborations aim to create high-end travel experiences that position Diriyah as a premier destination and a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing tourism landscape.


Saudi Arabia highlights urban sustainability vision at Cairo forum

Saudi Arabia highlights urban sustainability vision at Cairo forum
Updated 06 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia highlights urban sustainability vision at Cairo forum

Saudi Arabia highlights urban sustainability vision at Cairo forum
  • Authorities emphasize development goals, from green spaces to innovative infrastructure

Riyadh: Saudi authorities are showcasing the Kingdom’s role in sustainable urban development at the 12th World Urban Forum in Cairo, organized by the UN Human Settlements Programme, from Nov. 4-8.

The municipality of Baha region highlighted Vision 2030 objectives and the Kingdom’s urban development initiatives, along with the standards followed by the municipality.

Ali Al-Sawat, mayor of Baha, emphasized the Kingdom’s pioneering efforts to achieve sustainable development goals across various urban sectors.

The municipality’s participation also focused on urban planning, sustainable transportation, community engagement, waste management, recycling, green spaces and strategies to address environmental challenges.

It highlighted Saudi Arabia’s efforts to transform cities into adaptable, sustainable environments and showcased innovations improving residents’ quality of life and preserving the environment.

The municipality is committed to innovative solutions in infrastructure, project management and data analysis to build a sustainable urban model that meets community needs.

Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, head of the Saudi delegation at the forum, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s extensive experience in urban development and improving residents’ quality of life.

Since 2016, Saudi Arabia had pursued an ambitious national vision for 2030, Prince Faisal said at the forum’s ministerial roundtable. This comprehensive vision includes 27 sub-objectives, addressing various aspects of human life.

The Quality of Life Program, part of Saudi Vision 2030, hosted a panel titled 'Towards Future Cities: Putting Quality of Life and People’s Well-Being at the Core of Urban Planning.' (SPA)

He emphasized that the vision also focused on enhancing livability in Saudi cities, alongside economic, environmental and social improvements.

Prince Faisal praised Saudi Arabia’s experience in urban development, with 17 municipalities working to turn the Vision into practical initiatives benefiting both residents and visitors.

“The Kingdom is home to excellent and historically impactful projects,” he said, highlighting the King Salman Park, Sports Boulevard, Diriyah project and environmental programs such as the Saudi Green Initiative.

The Quality of Life Program, part of Saudi Vision 2030, hosted a panel titled “Towards Future Cities: Putting Quality of Life and People’s Well-Being at the Core of Urban Planning.”

The session explored strategies to improve living conditions in urban areas, focusing on cross-sector collaboration.

CEO of the program, Khalid Albaker, emphasized the forum’s role in raising awareness of quality of life in urban planning, showcasing Saudi efforts to enhance living standards.

Albaker stressed the need for collaboration across government, industry and entrepreneurship to find innovative solutions that met community needs and promoted sustainable development.

The program contributes to sustainable development through 170 initiatives in sports, culture, tourism, entertainment, urban design and safety, supporting job creation, economic growth, innovation and city humanization to improve quality of life across Saudi Arabia.

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites is also participating in the forum, showcasing its efforts to develop Makkah into a sustainable city. The commission is highlighting its work in enhancing transportation networks, infrastructure and services.

The municipality of Riyadh is showcasing exemplary urban and environmental initiatives, using modern technologies for planning, development and construction of future cities. The pavilion highlights the Kingdom’s achievements in sustainable urban development and innovation.

The Diriyah Gate Development Authority is also showcasing its role in preserving historical, cultural and urban heritage, while overseeing vital initiatives and projects. Through these efforts, the authority aims to achieve a vision that goes beyond traditional urban development.

Real Estate General Authority CEO Abdullah Al-Hammad emphasized Saudi Arabia’s steady progress toward its ambitious vision under the Kingdom’s leadership. He highlighted the commitment to a forward-looking urban future aligned with sustainability and global environmental challenges.

Al-Hammad said that the authority’s participation in the forum reflected its belief in the importance of local and international partnerships to address urban challenges and build modern, sustainable communities that were resilient and adaptable.

The authority aims to adopt global best practices to build cities of the future that meet the needs of residents, visitors and investors, while enhancing quality of life and creating vibrant, innovative communities.

The authority’s pokesperson ,Tayseer Al-Mufarrej, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s approach to urban development, including transforming informal settlements into sustainable communities, improving residents’ quality of life and providing adequate housing.

Al-Mufarrej said that addressing global urban challenges required international collaboration to develop innovative solutions based on a comprehensive, forward-thinking urban planning vision, incorporating environmental, economic and social dimensions for the future of cities.

He also emphasized the importance of balancing urban development with environmental diversity to improve residents’ well-being.