Fri Feb 14 04:55:34 UTC 2025: ## Saudi Arabia’s Islamic Arts Biennale Showcases Cultural Shift

**JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia** – The second Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah is underway, showcasing a striking juxtaposition of religious artifacts and contemporary art, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its image. Held under a vast tent structure and at King Abdulaziz International Airport’s west terminal, the exhibition, titled “And All That Is Between,” features pieces from prestigious institutions like the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Louvre, alongside works by contemporary artists.

A key piece is a section of the “kiswa,” the cloth covering the Kaaba, Islam’s holiest site. The Biennale also features medieval Persian illuminations, including royal portraits—a significant departure from the traditional Wahhabist interpretation of Islam, which historically prohibited such depictions. The inclusion of contemporary works, such as a fountain with AI-generated mosaic tiles by Yemeni-Indonesian artist Anhar Salem, further highlights this shift.

Curator Muhannad Shono described the exhibition as emphasizing the changes Saudi Arabia is undergoing. The strategic location of the Biennale, near the terminal for Mecca pilgrims, ensures exposure to a diverse audience. The event is viewed as a key component of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s “Vision 2030,” a plan to reshape the kingdom’s global image and move beyond its reputation for strict conservatism. The Biennale’s blend of historical religious objects and modern art serves as a powerful symbol of this ambitious transformation.

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