Renewing History: Art Takes Over Jeddah

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by Sophie She

Renewing History: Art Takes Over Jeddah

19 Feb 2024

In the midst of a dynamic cultural transformation in Saudi Arabia, the city of Jeddah is currently hosting the art exhibition, Balad Al-Fann. This initiative, organised by the non-profit Athr Foundation and running until March 9 in Jeddah's historical district, aims to rejuvenate the creative legacy of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Al-Balad district. The event is part of Saudi Arabia's forward-looking Saudi Vision 2030, seeking to position the neighbourhood as a leading cultural hub.

Balad Al-Fann

Themed “Past Forward,” the opening edition of Balad Al-Fann features a diverse array of events, including imaginative installations, contemporary art exhibitions, musical and theatrical performances, craft workshops, and culinary experiences. The exhibition transcends boundaries by bringing together global figures like digital artist Andrés Reisinger and local talents such as Bashaer Hawsawi, Latifa Albokhari, and Filwa Nazer, fostering a collaborative and inclusive platform for creative minds.

Eman Muharrak, the project manager of Balad Al-Fann, emphasises the initiative's openness to creativity and diversity. The goal is to provide a platform for individuals seeking inspiration, regardless of their background or age, contributing to the rich cultural palete of the region.

The Old Town

Balad Al-Fann unfolds across several historic locations in the Old Town, including Sharbatly House, Zainal House, Gotta House, Al Nawar House, and other heritage buildings, that showcase the vibrant culture of Jeddah Historic District. Hamza Serafi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Athr Foundation, describes the initiative as a yearly highlight that aims to restore the area's historical charm.

Sharbatly House; Zainal House; Al Nawar House

The Jeddah Historic District, representing the oldest part of the city, has faced neglect as residents moved to modernise areas following the 1930s oil discovery. The Ministry of Culture now embarks on an ambitious plan to regenerate the entire district, not only architecturally, but also as a cultural hub to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Land art

Arguably, the quintessence of the “Past Forward” theme is “Take Over Jeddah” by the digital (previously only digital, but not anymore) artist Andrés Reisinger. The standing 17-metres tall installation is displayed in the historical district.

“Take Over Jeddah” is the second physical work in his “take over” edition, similar to “Take Over Miami”. Reisinger speaks about the meaning and value of neglected architectural objects through the means of land art.

"Take Over Miami" Instagram: @reisingerandres

Rising impressively in the Old Town, the installation comes into a striking contrast with the ancient streets. Representing a dialogue between heritage and contemporary expression, the “Take Over Jeddah” invites viewers to reassess tradition through a modern lens.

What is important, despite its appearance of enveloping an ancient structure, the work ingeniously engages with its surroundings without physically touching the building.

The installation challenges viewers to contemplate heritage beyond its material presence.

Instagram: @reisingerandres

“Take Over Jeddah” is a pivotal moment in Reisinger's artistic evolution, transitioning between digital and physical art.

Exhibitions

Furthermore, "Take Over Jeddah" is a part of the compelling exhibition called “Matters Through Matter”. Curated by Jumana Ghouth in collaboration with Graham Harman, showcases sculptural and mixed media installations by renowned artists, both regional and global. The exhibition delves into the concept of autonomous objects, exploring their interactions independent of human perception. From boundless creations to everyday details, the collection showcases interventions with new materials alongside found and repurposed elements. Embedded in Al Balad, Jeddah's historical district, the exhibition taps into the potential of the unknown, encouraging audacious and imaginary journeys within the architectural context.

To find information about three other beautiful curated selections and a broad collection of events at Balad Al-Fann, you can have a look at their calendar.

Balad Al-Fann and “Take Over Jeddah” both encapsulate the aspiration to rekindle the district's artistic spirit and contribute to the broader cultural renaissance of Saudi Arabia. Obviously, now one of our editorial pieces of advice on a cultural getaway weekend would be to visit this amazing fair and enrich your life with this significant event of the contemporary art world.

by Sophie She