You Have to See It to Believe It: The Islamic Arts Biennale
After shaking up the art world in 2023, the Islamic Arts Biennale returns to Jeddah even bigger than before. This one-of-a-kind festival of the arts combines the scale of an established museum collection with the creative ambition of the world’s best contemporary art galleries, foregrounding local and international artists. The five-month celebration launches on January 25, turning 100,000 sqm (1,076,391 sq ft!) of exhibition space at the King Abdulaziz International Airport into a diverse complex of galleries and architecture. Read on to see why excitement is already in the air in the Kingdom of Culture.
What’s in a name?
The Islamic Arts Biennale is held every two years, alternating with its sister event, the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale on off-years. Rather than a geographically or heritage-focused event, the Islamic Arts Biennale promotes a wider view of Islamic art and architecture, showcasing a rich cultural inheritance as well as a diverse and thoroughly modern arts scene in the here and now. This year, for instance, Islamic art from Indonesia – the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country – makes an appearance, bringing a wholly new perspective, even for those somewhat familiar with Islamic art from the Middle East.
“And all That Is in Between”
This year’s Biennale plays host to seven unique zones that tie into a theme derived from Islamic scripture, capturing the wonders of Creation from different perspectives and mediums. More than 500 pieces will be on display, with works from more than 30 artists, as well as world-class collections on-loan from familiar places like the Musée du Louvre, or the Victoria and Albert, but also institutions off the beaten track, like the ones coming from Tunis, Tashkent, or Timbuktu.
To name just a couple of the zones: AlBidayah (“The Beginning”) celebrates Jeddah’s history as the Red Sea gateway for pilgrims, merchants, and travelers alike. Here, you’ll find priceless artifacts from Makkah and Medina – a unique opportunity for non-Muslims to see these outside the usual context of pilgrimage – alongside contemporary works that invite contemplation on this heritage.
At AlMadar (“The Orbit”), exhibits from more than 21 countries illustrate the different ways Islamic heritage is expressed, from North Africa to Southeast Asia, and in keeping with the Biennale’s theme of dialogue across time and cultures, these are also framed by contemporary art commissions. You’ll also want to check out AlMusalla, where the winner of an international architecture prize exhibits a fully functional prayer space that is both contemporary in its design and uses sustainable materials.
Can I still catch it?
This year’s Biennale will run for five months at Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, meaning you can see it until May 25, 2025. While you’ll want to take advantage of the gorgeous spring weather sooner rather than later, summer visitors may also want to time their visit to catch the next Jeddah Season!
Get a ticket or book yourself a guided tour here.
