To commemorate Saudi Arabia's National Day, the King Abdulaziz Center for National Dialogue , in cooperation with the Saudi Society for Fine Arts (JASFT) , is organizing a cultural forum entitled "Culture: The Memory of a Nation and the Spirit of its Founding." The forum, to be held Tuesday evening in the presence of the Center's Secretary-General, Dr. Abdullah Al-Fawzan, aims to highlight the pivotal role of culture and the arts in shaping national identity and strengthening the values of belonging since the establishment of the first Saudi state.
Historical background: Founding day and its deep roots
This gathering coincides with the national celebrations of Founding Day, which falls on February 22nd each year, a day that symbolizes the deep historical and cultural roots of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This date dates back to 1727 CE, when Imam Muhammad bin Saud assumed power in Diriyah, establishing the First Saudi State. This event marked a historical turning point in the Arabian Peninsula, laying the foundations for a centralized state based on the principles of unity, security, and stability, with Diriyah becoming its capital and a cultural and economic center. Commemorating this anniversary is not merely about recalling the past, but also aims to connect current generations with the history and sacrifices of their ancestors and to help them understand the solid foundations upon which their state was built.
The importance of the forum and its strategic objectives
The “Culture: Memory of a Nation and Spirit of its Founding” forum seeks to achieve several strategic objectives aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. It emphasizes that culture is not merely entertainment, but rather the living memory of a nation and the vessel that preserves its identity and authentic values. Through its various events, the forum aims to:
- Strengthening national identity: Promoting awareness of the historical depth of the Kingdom and the role of culture in shaping the Saudi personality throughout the ages.
- Highlighting the role of the arts: Highlighting the visual arts as an effective means of documenting national history and conveying founding stories to new generations in creative and innovative ways.
- Stimulating cultural dialogue: Providing a platform for intellectuals, artists, and specialists to discuss the dimensions of culture in building national awareness and promoting the spirit of citizenship.
- Supporting creators: Encouraging artists and creators to express their national belonging through their works, and supporting the role of cultural institutions in society.
The forum's activities: intellectual dialogue and artistic creativity
The forum's program includes a rich dialogue session featuring a distinguished panel of speakers: Dr. Hanaa Al-Shibli, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Society for Fine Arts (JASFT), and Dr. Saud Al-Musaibih, Head of the Ta'aruf Center for Family Counseling. The session will be moderated by Dr. Abdul Salam Al-Sulaiman, Supervisor of the National Center for Public Opinion Polls. The discussion will cover various aspects of the role of culture in building societal awareness and embodying the spirit of the nation's founding principles in all facets of life.
Alongside the panel discussion, an art exhibition and live drawing session will be held, featuring artworks inspired by the Kingdom's history and core values. The exhibition reflects Saudi national identity through paintings and artworks that embody the epics of the Kingdom's founding and its rich heritage, offering attendees an opportunity for direct interaction with art and to draw inspiration from a sense of national pride and patriotism.
