JEDDAH: Bringing together a combination of light and color with stimulating artworks and live performances, Raibal Events and Silent Echo staged a “Luminarium” event in Jeddah over the past 10 days. Supported by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), the event was held between Jan. 10-20 and attracted thousands of visitors.
The luminarium tour involved a spectacular walk through a monumental inflatable sculpture of color and light. Visitors removed their shoes before entering an airlock and explored the installation. The light and shimmering colors inside the inflatable sculpture created a sense of wonderment for explorers of all ages.
The luminarium was designed by Alan Parkinson in the early 1980s in Nottingham, UK, but the idea came into existence in 1992. Inspired by natural forms and geometric solids, the luminarium is a maze of winding paths and dome structures where the visitors lose themselves in sensory bliss.
Visitors were seen sitting and lying back while enjoying the ambience in the cocooning, pod-like structure. Bandr Al-Meeman, founder of Silent Echo, said: “The scale of the structure is impressive even before anyone steps through the airlock and, once inside, it will mesmerize them. A truly unmissable experience of light and color as it plays with the senses.”
Explaining more about the experience, he said that it was created to support the special needs community, especially those who have autism. He added that since 1992, it has been set up in five continents and more than 40 countries where more than three million guests visited the attraction.
Moreover, describing the structure, he added, “The luminarium’s pneumatic environment provides a utopian vessel to contain light’s radiant brilliance and through cavernous domes visitors move in a medium of saturated color, in a world apart from the normal and everyday routine.
“It took us two months to construct the 1000sqm luminarium dome-like structure that consists of three colors and one tree,” he said.
Nasser Al-Nasseri, executive projects director of Raibal Events, said: “It was a nice opportunity to work with Silent Echo, a Switzerland-based company, and spread the idea of luminarium that is light and color in the Saudi and Middle-Eastern culture. However, having the luminarium tour alone was not enough, so we decided to expand the event by adding four other activities to the main activity.”
“We brought more entertaining activities related to the event theme — that is light and color — while focusing on all ages, both kids and adults, who have a passion for arts and entertainment,” he added.
Four different zones consisting of a kids’ color experience, show and performances, art stations and a color adventure zone were added to the event.
“This unique event bears testament to Saudi Arabia’s engaging and creative evolution, presenting to audiences a diversity of entertaining activities and experiences that underpin the Kingdom’s position as an entertainment hub,” Al-Nasseri said.
Speaking to Arab News, he explained that the entire production was built in-house using recycled materials. LED lights were made with the help of empty boxes that were initially containers used in factories to store liquids and chemicals.
The creative juices really seemed to be flowing in every corner of the event. The art station that had different workshops, 3D-modeling and art works was enthralling. The color maze presented an innovative way for visitors to have fun while they threw color powder at each other while finding their way out of the maze.
The art station zone was organized by Ninetyd, a local creative platform. At the event, they brought together more than 14 creative individuals — artists, designers, 3D artists, digital artists and animators — to present their work.
Mona Balhemar, CEO of Ninetyd, said, “Ninetyd basically runs a creative project called Passionures. The main theme of this project is to make creativity a living and bring opportunity for creatives and artists. The main aim for us to take part in luminarium was as it’s all about colors and arts, we decided to do interactive booths with the help of artists registered in our platform and help them display their work.”
Hazzan Felemban and Wijdan Al-Ghalbi, both pottery makers, displayed their products. As did Amal Abdullah who specializes in digital-art coffee mugs and cups and is founder of the Miss Coffee brand. “It was a unique experience to do live art on mugs and cups. People had a chance to understand and appreciate this kind of art,” Abdullah told Arab News.
Hind Bataweel, founder of Colorfly, said “Our space at luminarium was more like a healing space. People came to vent and express themselves freely with paints. Expression varies from one person to another, so it’s more likely a free self-expression. Our participation in luminarium was more about adult adventure so they could express themselves with color using their hands and feet. However, kids came along too to express themselves, paint without brushes, splash colors on the walls, which expressed freedom.
“The concept of painting and getting creative while expressing their feelings turned out to be one of the main attractions during the event as people sometimes want to feel creative because it is such healing process,” Bataweel added.
Visitors came in groups of friends, with colleagues, as couples and some people even came by themselves to make new friends. Live performances by musical bands and a live radio station organized by Mixed FM made it an exciting few days to remember.
Luminarium event captivates Jeddah audiences with light and color
Luminarium event captivates Jeddah audiences with light and color
Organizers laud historical connections as Saudi exhibition showcases Italian artifacts
ALULA: The Royal Commission for AlUla has partnered with the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) to bring ancient works from its collection to Saudi Arabia and the region for the first time.
The “Masterpieces of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples” exhibit is running at Maraya until Dec. 14.
The show highlights Saudi Arabia’s role in the Incense Road, a network that extended over 2000km.
Melanie de Souza, executive director of destination marketing at the Royal Commission of AlUla, told Arab News that the commission is grounded in “this very deep heritage.”
“Our connections with Rome are strong, and for us, it’s about telling the continuous story of the role AlUla played in terms of trading routes and cultural connections across the world,” she said.
Professor Massimo Osanna, director general of museums at the Italian Ministry of Culture, told Arab News that AlUla, like Pompeii and Naples, is “one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
“In AlUla, you can understand how close the culture is between our territory in Italy and here,” he said. “This territory belonged to the Roman Empire. The Roman Empire expanded into Saudi Arabia… In the inscriptions, you will find Arabic, Nabatean, and Latin.”
Fifteen masterpieces from ancient sites such as Pompeii, Herculaneum and Rome are being presented to a regional audience for the first time.
Highlights include a statuette of Alexander the Great on horseback from the 1st century BCE and a statue of Roman Emperor Trajan found in Minturno, Italy.
“Some values and attitudes of human beings are very contemporary. We are very similar, and of course, society changes … but there are some aspects of human beings that are always the same,” Osanna said, explaining why the statues resonate with viewers today.
Michelin Guide to make its Qatar debut
DUBAI: The Michelin Guide will make its debut in Qatar next month, with a launch ceremony scheduled for Dec. 12 at Katara Hall, Raffles Doha.
It will mark the first time restaurants in the Qatari capita have been recognized by the prestigious culinary guide.
International director Gwendal Poullennec said: “The Michelin Guide, renowned for its meticulous and independent reviews of dining establishments, has been exploring Doha’s vibrant culinary scene.
“Our famously anonymous inspectors have thoroughly reviewed the city’s top eateries, from the bustling Corniche to the luxurious hotels and diverse restaurants representing cuisines from around the world. We are delighted to finally announce the Michelin Guide’s arrival in Doha.”
To mark the event, an exclusive cocktail reception will feature guest chefs presenting signature dishes and demonstrating their expertise. These will include representatives of Alleno Paris, awarded three stars in the 2024 Michelin Guide France; Jordnaer, which holds three stars in this year’s Nordics guide; and BO Innovation, which is recognized with two stars in the 2024 Hong Kong guide.
Abu Radah and the musical heart of Riyadh’s Souq Al-Zal
- How one man’s passion is bringing Saudi musical history to life in Souq Al-Zal
RIYADH: In Riyadh’s bustling Souq Al-Zal the air is filled with the scent of spices, vibrant colors of traditional goods, and the echo of timeless melodies.
Amid the stalls of woven rugs and antiques, Abu Radah’s corner stands out. Known for his collection of records and cassettes, and his boundless passion for folk music, he has become a beloved figure in the market, sharing his love for vintage sounds with locals and tourists alike.
“I work with folk art. It’s my passion,” he told Arab News. “I love folk art; artists like Fahd Al-Saeed, Bashir Shannan, Essa, Taher, and all the folk artists, including Mohammed Abdu and Talal, all Khaleeji and non-Khaleeji music.”
For over two decades, Abu Radah has nurtured this passion, turning it into a collection that speaks to the soul of Saudi Arabia’s musical heritage.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Videos of Abu Radah spinning vinyl records and inviting visitors to dance have gone viral, bringing a new wave of attention to his humble stall.
• His corner is not just a place to buy records, but a place to experience a piece of Saudi history.
His stall, adorned with colorful rugs and surrounded by retro radios and speakers, is a treasure trove of music that resonates with Saudi heritage. “Honestly, I’ve been passionate about it since I was young. I started collecting records when I was around 17 or 18,” he said. “I used to get them from Abu Wahib, may he rest in peace, in Helat Al-Ahrar.
“Little by little, I collected records, tapes, silencing devices, recorders, musical scales, and classic recordings. It became a hobby and a routine for me, thank God.”
Visitors to Abu Radah’s stall can explore everything from rare vinyl records to cassette tapes, all carefully organized across tables covered in colorful textiles. “(I have) some rare records, like Bashir Shannan’s album ‘Al-Barih Yom Aindak.’ It’s hard to find, as well as the classic Fahd Al-Saeed records. These are collector’s items,” he says with pride.
His dedication to preserving this musical heritage has made his stall a magnet for enthusiasts.
“Honestly, Bashir Shannan, may he rest in peace. He’s my favorite artist,” Abu Radah added, reflecting on his connection to the music.
His collection also includes international names. “I have records of Michael Jackson and other international artists. I got them because we receive tourists, and some might prefer non-Arabic music.”
This blend of local and international records makes his stall a fascinating stop for tourists. “Tourists enjoy it here. We even had an American tourist who loved it when I played a Michael Jackson record, and it became a trending moment,” Abu Radah recalls with a smile.
Souq Al-Zal, known for its antique treasures and traditional crafts, has evolved in recent years, attracting a new generation eager to reconnect with their roots. Social media, particularly TikTok, has played a surprising role in this resurgence.
Videos of Abu Radah spinning vinyl records and inviting visitors to dance have gone viral, bringing a new wave of attention to his humble stall. Young Saudis and international tourists now flock to the market, eager to meet the man behind the music and experience his one-of-a-kind collection.
Abdullah Al-Sheqair, known as Shalgm, is another familiar face in the market who has spent eight to ten years there.
Shalgm admires how the market has evolved, crediting social media and the country’s leadership for revitalizing heritage. “Social media has boosted the market, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision has rejuvenated heritage. Previously, items like traditional coffee pots sold for little, but now they have high value. Back then, only the elderly were in this trade, but now both youth and elders are involved.”
According to Shalgm, the number of tourists has increased significantly, bringing fresh energy to the market. “Now, we have an increasing number of tourists visiting. They participate in auctions and enjoy the music with Abu Radah. Everyone’s happy,” he said.
Shalgm also holds a deep admiration for Abu Radah’s dedication to music. “Speaking of Abu Radah, he’s been a fan of Bashir for over 20 years … he is one of the nicest people in the market, even kinder than I am,” Shalgm added, highlighting Radah’s well-known generosity and warmth.
As the day winds down in Souq Al-Zal, the sound of Abu Radah’s records continues to echo through the market, creating an atmosphere where music bridges generations and cultures.
For those who pass by his stall, it is not just a place to buy records, but a place to experience a piece of Saudi history, brought to life by a man whose love for music is as timeless as the records he cherishes.
‘Art of the Kingdom’ takes contemporary Saudi creations to a global audience
- Work of 17 artists showcased to coincide with G20 Summit in Brazil
- Honors our past, says Mona Khazindar, advisor at Culture Ministry
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Museums Commission will inaugurate “Art of the Kingdom,’ the country’s first traveling contemporary exhibition, at the historic Paco Imperial building in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this week.
The exhibition from Nov. 13 to Jan. 12 runs under the theme “Poetic Illuminations” and seeks to offer international audiences a look at Saudi Arabia’s evolving contemporary art scene.
Launching to coincide with the upcoming G20 Summit in Brazil, “Art of the Kingdom” features the work of 17 artists, each representing a range of generations and styles, with mediums spanning paintings, installations, and video art.
The artists featured are Sara Abuabdallah, Ghada Al-Hassan, Ayman Yossri Daydban, Ahmed Mater, Emy Kat, Ayman Zedani, Shadia Alem, Nasser Al-Salem, Manal Al-Dowayan, Lina Gazzaz, Muhannad Shono, Sarah Brahim, Daniah Alsaleh, Faisal Samra, Filwa Nazer, Moath Alofi, and Ahad Al-Amoudi.
The “Art of the Kingdom” show will travel to Riyadh in early 2025, where it will be showcased at the Saudi Museum of Contemporary Art in the JAX district. At the end of the year, it will be presented at the National Museum of China in Beijing.
Mona Khazindar, advisor at the Ministry of Culture, in a written response to questions from Arab News, stated that the exhibition “is a testament to the profound impact that art has on our understanding of history, culture and community.
“It not only honors our country’s past and collective memory, but also demonstrates the dynamic role art plays in connecting us to our shared identity, inspiring creativity and dialogue for generations to come.”
Curator Diana Wechsler, in her response to questions, said “every exhibition must open new horizons for its audience, offering an experience of discovery and challenging habitual thinking.
“Exhibitions, to me, are also experiences of knowledge. This is especially important here, as this exhibition is the first to showcase a group of contemporary Saudi artists abroad.
She added: “The exhibition is the result of extensive research from which its central themes emerged. I visited many artists, most of them based in Saudi Arabia, and engaged in deep conversations about each artist’s creative experience.
“It was an immensely stimulating journey for me, and I hope this exhibition provides viewers with a similar path of understanding through its selected works.”
Wechsler chose Nasser Al-Salem’s “Arabi/Gharbi” (“Arab/Foreigner”), with its large neon Arabic script, to both open and close the exhibition.
Wechsler explained: “This piece offers viewers both a question and a clue: what does this neon signify? It creates a symbolic boundary between the contemporary Saudi experience and the cultural framework of the audience.
“Through each piece, the exhibition unfolds like a revelation — a poetic illumination — exploring various facets of a captivating culture where past and present, tradition and transformation, are interwoven.
“Arriving at the end of this journey and encountering Al-Salem’s neon again, I imagine the audience will see it differently, their horizons broadened by the journey they have taken.”
Through “Art of the Kingdom,” the museums authority aims to empower Saudi artists by highlighting their work globally. It also seeks to establish the nation’s presence in the global art landscape, and foster cross-cultural appreciation and dialogue.
The exhibition centers on two primary themes: the desert as a symbol of vastness, infinity, and life’s depth, and the singularity of Saudi cultural traditions as seen through the evolution of visual culture.
Artist Muhannad Shono said: “As Saudi Arabia now invests in its arts and cultural expression, and strives to invite the world in, it’s important that this cultural dialogue does not flow in one direction, but to also reach outwards in an honest and equal exchange of ideas with the world.
“My role is to continue to express and imagine, not only in my country but beyond its borders … bypassing the perceived lines that separate us and divide.”
Artists Sara Abu Abdallah and Ghada Al-Hassan, a mother and daughter team, are presenting a collaborative piece.
In a joint written response, they said their work, “Horizontal Dimensions,” explores “intergenerational complicity, the notion of home, urban transformation, and shared dreams and visions, bridging personal history with contemporary dialogue.
“As mother and daughter, we have always shared a creative bond, and this project allowed us to combine our voices and artistic visions to express something greater than the sum of its parts.
“By presenting this work at such a significant exhibition in Rio de Janeiro, we hope to contribute to the global conversation on cultural exchange and the evolving narratives of our region.”
Meet Reman Assere, Saudi Arabia’s youngest Arabic calligraphy instructor
- She became the youngest certified instructor at the age of just 11
- Assere now tutors students of all ages
MAKKAH: After qualifying at just 11 years old, Reman Assere officially became Saudi Arabia’s youngest calligraphy instructor.
Her journey started in fifth grade, sparked by a school activity. She began with basic exercises but, with continuous practice and self-learning through platforms such as YouTube, she steadily refined her skills.
Her ambitions and her love of the art drove her to undertake professional training in Kufic calligraphy, believed to be the earliest example of a universal style of Arabic calligraphy. Once qualified, she was registered on the Ministry of Culture’s official platform, Al-Khattat.
What truly set her apart and caught people’s attention was her relentless dedication to learning. Even during vacations, she practiced tirelessly, seeking out special events and connecting with other calligraphers.
FASTFACT
Reman Assere’s ambitions and her love of the art drove her to undertake professional training in Kufic calligraphy.
Now aged 15, Assere told Arab News that her professional training was carried out under the guidance Shurooq Al-Harbi. She also highlighted the pivotal role played in her development by Prof. Siraj Al-Omari, whose ongoing support and encouragement were instrumental.
Today, Assere has become proficient in both in writing and teaching Kufic calligraphy and is expanding her expertise to include the Diwani style.
However, her journey has been far from easy. A lack of calligraphy institutes in her native region of Abha posed considerable challenges and meant she had to rely on online courses or travel to other cities.
It was worth it, however. Her numerous awards include first place in the 2023 Cultural Skills Competition and the Ministry of Education’s National Olympiad for Arabic Calligraphy. She has also demonstrated her talents at prominent events, such as the Layalina Festival in Wadi Al-Dawasir and the Abha Shopping and Entertainment Festival.
Assere has also led courses at the Holy Mosque Library in Makkah and organized calligraphy workshops in schools.
Today, she is recognized as one of the most influential trainers in Arabic calligraphy, teaching across all age groups. She takes pride in seeing her students compete in calligraphy competitions, a testament to the success of her approach and teaching methods.
Even in an age of rapid technological advancements, Assere is confident that calligraphy’s unique beauty will endure. She believes the future is bright for students and trainees, as the art of calligraphy continues to inspire and cultivate creativity.
She explained how the beauty of Arabic calligraphy is in the balance and harmony of its letters, with fluid lines that interlace. For Assere, Arabic calligraphy not only captures the essence and grace of the Arabic language, but it also allows the writer to convey thoughts and emotions.
Arabic calligraphy is celebrated for its variety of styles, including Kufic, Naskh, Thuluth, Diwani, and Ruq’ah, each with a unique character and distinct lettering technique. Rooted in precise geometric principles, Arabic calligraphy achieves a harmonious visual balance, allowing for flexibility in letter formation, overlapping designs, and intricate decorative motifs.
Assere said: “The beauty of Arabic calligraphy extends beyond writing; it is a visual art that enhances both artworks and decorations. Over time, it has become a cultural symbol that embodies Arab and Islamic identity.”
