Art Exhibition Explores Hajj as Millions Flock to Holy Land
The exhibition features 26 artists, including three Saudi photographers. It has over 100 exhibits, such as photographs, paintings, books, manuscripts, and artifacts. It runs from June 12 to 23, at Terhal Hall in Jeddah Park.
The exhibition coincides with the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, when Hajj takes place. Hajj is one of the pillars of Islam and is obligatory for every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able to perform it at least once in their lifetime.
The exhibition aims to reflect the efforts of Saudi Arabia and other Islamic nations in facilitating Hajj for pilgrims from around the world. It also aims to highlight the significance of Mecca and Hajj in Islamic history and culture, Arab News reported.
The exhibition covers different periods and aspects of Hajj, from the medieval age to the Ottoman era and up to the present day. It includes embroidered fabrics that once covered the Kaaba, the sacred cube-shaped building in Mecca that Muslims circle around during Hajj. It also includes aerial shots of the Holy Mosque, the largest mosque in the world that surrounds the Kaaba.
Zuhair Maimani, a business development consultant at the Creativity Zone Foundation and organizer of the exhibition, said that the exhibition aims to showcase Hajj and its impact on Muslims worldwide. He also said that it contributes to fostering a greater understanding of Islam among non-Muslims.
Along with the main exhibition, there is a photography exhibit about Hajj by three Saudi photographers: Khaled Khader, Susan Baaqhil, and Imad Al-Husseini. Baaqhil, the first professional award-winning photographer-artist in Saudi Arabia, said that she aims to present a unique perspective on Hajj and show the urban redevelopment in Mecca.
The exhibition also hosts live calligraphy workshops and displays Islamic designs for visitors to interact with. The exhibition is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Source: Agencies
