Islamic Arts Biennale is back in the waves as a cultural celebration of richness and artistic brilliance. This year’s theme, Bringing Heritage to Life, reflects the spirit of the event, where Islamic heritage objects are brought not just as artifacts of the past, but as living witness to the rich cultural manifestations of the Islamic world. From intricately crafted manuscripts to centuries-old textiles and architectural fragments, the exhibition welcomes visitors into a multi-sensory odyssey through time.
Hosted in a specially constructed pavilion in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the Biennale has gathered more than 200 artifacts and installations from over 30 nations. Curated with an emphasis on diversity, the event celebrates the wide geographical reach of Islamic culture—from Andalusia to Indonesia—embodying the unity and diversity that characterize the faith’s rich artistic heritage.
Among the highlight exhibits is a restored 9th-century Mushaf (Qur’anic manuscript), an Ottoman-era mihrab (prayer niche), and modern art works that reinterpret classical motifs. Interactive digital screens and storytelling installations further enhance engagement, making Islamic history accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.
By spanning the ancient and the modern, the Islamic Arts Biennale not only safeguards heritage but revamps it. The festival highlights how Islamic art still sparks debate, identity, and innovation, challenging visitors to consider common human values through the prism of imagination and belief.
