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Under the distinguished patronage of Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Culture, the International Handicraft Forum commenced in Sakaka. This event aims to connect Saudi and international artisans to fortify cultural bonds. Prince Miteb bin Mishaal bin Badr bin Saud bin Abdulaziz inaugurated the forum on behalf of the Al-Jouf Region governor, with Maha Al-Senan, Deputy Minister for Research and Cultural Heritage, present at the opening.
Hosted at the Al-Jouf Cultural Center over two days, the forum is a collaborative initiative from the Ministry of Culture, the Heritage Commission, and the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth). This gathering is part of the Year of Handicrafts 2025 initiative, emphasizing the role of traditional crafts in Saudi culture while ensuring they remain integral to everyday life.
The forum underscores how traditional handicrafts embody Saudi Arabia's rich cultural identity, highlighting the artisans' crucial role in preserving these legacies. The event aims to foster cultural pride, illustrating how handmade crafts serve as a bridge connecting communities to their history and unique artistic expressions.
A significant objective of the forum is to cultivate closer ties among Saudi artisans and international peers. This shared platform enables artisans, researchers, and specialists to meet, exchange insights, and learn from each other, amplifying the craft sector and enhancing cultural exchange.
Moreover, the forum addresses the potential of traditional crafts in boosting cultural tourism in Saudi Arabia. These crafts attract visitors eager to experience local culture, ultimately fostering economic growth. By advocating for artisans, the event aspires to enhance economic opportunities and uplift both craftsmen and craftswomen.
In addition to celebrating heritage, the forum delves into contemporary ideas and techniques in the craft sector. Researchers present recent studies, while artisans glean ways to blend tradition with modernity, ensuring the preservation of age-old skills while promoting innovative growth.