The Islamic Arts Biennale will be taking place at the iconic Hajj terminal in Jeddah from Monday January 23 to Sunday April 23, 2023 as announced by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation (DBF). The Biennale will be held under the theme of Awwal Bayt (First House). The exhibition will examine how the Ka’bah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah create a sense of belonging among Muslims worldwide in reference to their own homes (bayt).
The Islamic Arts Biennale will be divided into two parts: indoor and outdoor. The indoor instalments will be focused on the Sacred Direction (qiblah), while the outdoor one will be focused on Migration (hijrah). The event aims to showcase the art and creativity of Islamic culture, from both the past and present. Additionally, it aims to highlight a mix of traditions and modernity.
The Islamic Arts Biennale 2023 lineup has been revealed. There will be 44 artists participating including Saudi artists Ahmed Mater and Sultan Bin Fahd, Egyptian artist Huda Lutfi and Iranian-born Shahpour Pouyan, among others will be a part of the event.
Since the Islamic Arts Biennale 2023 is inspired by Ka’bah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, an it will feature artworks on loan from some of the most prestigious local and international institutions that have contributed to the Islamic Arts. The inaugural Islamic Arts Biennale is curated by international scholars, including those from the Smithsonian in Washington, DC and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, Egnland.
Also known as the Canopy Terminal, the space will feature a purpose-built 70,000 square metre venue with facilities to include exhibition spaces, a theatre, a mosque, workshops, classrooms dedicated to programming, as well as retail and dining.
The Foundation will host a biennale every year, alternating between the Contemporary Art Biennale and the Islamic Arts Biennale.
