PARIS, France - Saudi Arabia is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage that reflects its history, geography, and identity. One of the most prominent aspects of this heritage is the traditional handicrafts that have been practiced for generations by skilled artisans across the Kingdom. These handicrafts include pottery, wood carving, carpentry, blacksmithing, knitting, weaving, leather tanning, beadwork, boat manufacturing, and many more. Each craft has its own story, technique, and aesthetic that express the values, beliefs, and aspirations of the people who make them.
The Saudi International Handicrafts Week, which kicked off on June 7 at Riyadh Front under the patronage of Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Heritage Commission, is a unique opportunity to celebrate and appreciate these crafts and their makers. The week-long event, organized by the Heritage Commission, features more than 200 areas dedicated to various craftspeople, as well as workshops, exhibitions, and musical performances. The event also hosts local Arab and international experts and artisans who share their knowledge and experience with the visitors.
The Saudi International Handicrafts Week is not only a showcase of the past but also a platform for the future. It aims to highlight the role of handicrafts in preserving cultural heritage and strengthening national identity, as well as creating economic opportunities and social development. It also encourages young people to learn from their masters and to innovate new forms of expression using traditional materials and methods. The event also fosters cross-cultural dialogue and exchange among different regions and countries that share a common passion for handicrafts.
The Saudi International Handicrafts Week is a testament to the vision of the Kingdom to promote its culture and heritage as a source of pride and inspiration for its people and the diversity and creativity of Saudi Arabia that enriches its society and contributes to its progress.
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