In a move reflecting the depth of the cultural dynamism taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Historic Jeddah district is hosting the second edition of the Artist in Residence program, organized by the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy, "Dar Al Qalam." This exceptional event brings together ten of the most prominent local and international artists and calligraphers, aiming to forge a new vision that blends the authenticity of Arabic calligraphy with contemporary visual arts techniques.
Historic Jeddah: A cradle of heritage and arts
The choice of Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad) is no coincidence. This UNESCO World Heritage Site represents a historical and cultural depth spanning centuries. This event is part of the Ministry of Culture's efforts to revitalize the area, not only as a tourist destination but also as a beacon of cultural and artistic influence. The interplay between the walls of its ancient heritage buildings and the artistry of Arabic calligraphy creates a visual spectacle that affirms the continuity of Arab identity and its capacity for renewal.
Merging technology with authenticity: From inkwell to artificial intelligence
This edition of the artist residency witnessed a qualitative shift in artistic approaches, as participants did not limit themselves to traditional tools, but rather ventured towards broader horizons by integrating Arabic calligraphy with:
- Artificial intelligence technologies.
- Light arts and projection.
- Fine arts, ceramics and textiles.
This bold fusion aims to present artistic templates that break the stagnation and prove that Arabic calligraphy is a living art that is capable of evolving and keeping pace with the digital age.
"Open Studio" activities and Al-Falah Schools
The Dar Al Qalam Residency opened its doors to the public with an "Open Studio" event at the historic Al Falah Schools building, from January 8th to 12th. This program offered visitors a rare opportunity to glimpse behind the scenes of the creative process and gain firsthand insight into the artistic journeys of the participants. The eight-week program included a rich mix of:
- Advanced technical workshops.
- Quality lectures and critical sessions.
- Creative research to develop artistic practices.
Strategic dimensions and cultural impact
This event gains its significance from its direct alignment with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , which places great importance on strengthening national identity and celebrating Arab culture. The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy is a cornerstone of the Ministry of Culture's strategy to solidify the Kingdom's position as a global authority on Arabic calligraphy and related arts. The outcomes of this residency are expected to enrich the local art scene and open channels for global dialogue, highlighting the aesthetics of Arabic script as a universal art form that transcends language boundaries.
