Saudi Heritage Commission Announces Second Edition of Banan Handicrafts Week

The Saudi Heritage Commission has announced the second edition of the Saudi International Handicrafts Week ‘Banan’, set to take place under the patronage of Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Heritage Commission, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, at the Roshn Front in Riyadh from November 23 to 29, 2024. The event aims to highlight authentic handicrafts and traditional industries, supporting artisans from within the Kingdom and abroad by showcasing their creations and enhancing their capabilities.

Context and Background

Following the success of its first edition, which received several international awards for excellence in utilizing handicraft aesthetics through innovative artistic design, ‘Banan’ has become a key platform for celebrating traditional crafts. The exhibition underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving intangible cultural heritage while promoting economic opportunities for artisans. More than 20 countries will participate, with over 500 local and international artisans displaying their work, reflecting the Kingdom’s growing role as a hub for cultural exchange.

Key Details

The exhibition will feature diverse pavilions and activities, including a Handicraft Arts Village, a Live Craft Demonstration Pavilion, a Craft Exhibition, a Handicraft Workshop Pavilion, an Interactive Experience Zone, and an Entrepreneurs and Artisan Institutions Platform. A dedicated Children’s Pavilion will offer engaging activities for younger visitors. The event is organized in partnership with Elm Company, the Executive Company, Nova Water Company, the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wirth), and the Saudi Crafts Company, all supporting the handicraft sector’s role in enriching the cultural landscape.

Implications and Impact

‘Banan’ serves as a dynamic platform to economically empower artisans by enabling them to market their work to a broader audience of local and international visitors. By raising awareness of handicrafts as part of the Kingdom’s intangible cultural heritage, the exhibition aims to ensure their continuity for future generations. The event also provides a rich cultural experience, allowing visitors to interact directly with artisans and observe the production processes of handmade pieces, deepening their understanding of Saudi customs and traditions.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The Saudi Heritage Commission emphasizes that ‘Banan’ represents a vision to support and empower the handicraft cultural sector, making it a key contributor to the Kingdom’s economy. This aligns with the National Culture Strategy derived from Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes cultural development and economic diversification. Through this exhibition, the Commission reiterates its commitment to fostering an encouraging environment for artisans and creatives, aiming for ‘Banan’ to become a prominent cultural exhibition locally and internationally, attracting a wide audience interested in heritage and handicrafts.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Saudi International Handicrafts Week ‘Banan’?

A1. It is an annual exhibition organized by the Saudi Heritage Commission to highlight authentic handicrafts and traditional industries, supporting artisans from Saudi Arabia and around the world.

Q2. When will the second edition of ‘Banan’ take place?

A2. The second edition is scheduled from November 23 to 29, 2024, at the Roshn Front in Riyadh.

Q3. Who is the patron of the second edition of ‘Banan’?

A3. The event is under the patronage of Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Heritage Commission, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud.

Q4. How many countries are participating in the second edition of ‘Banan’?

A4. More than 20 countries will participate in the exhibition.

Q5. How many artisans will showcase their work at ‘Banan’?

A5. Over 500 local and international artisans will display their creations at the event.

Q6. What pavilions will be featured at ‘Banan’?

A6. Pavilions include a Handicraft Arts Village, Live Craft Demonstration Pavilion, Craft Exhibition, Workshop Pavilion, Interactive Experience Zone, and an Entrepreneurs and Artisan Institutions Platform.

Q7. Is there a dedicated area for children at ‘Banan’?

A7. Yes, a Children’s Pavilion will offer a range of activities designed for kids.

Q8. What is the main goal of ‘Banan’?

A8. The exhibition aims to celebrate traditional handicrafts, economically empower artisans, and preserve intangible cultural heritage for future generations.

Q9. How does ‘Banan’ support artisans economically?

A9. It enables artisans to market their work to a broader audience of local and international visitors, increasing their sales and recognition.

Q10. What awards did the first edition of ‘Banan’ receive?

A10. The first edition received several international awards for excellence in utilizing handicraft aesthetics through innovative artistic design.

Q11. Who are the partners for the second edition of ‘Banan’?

A11. Partners include Elm Company, the Executive Company, Nova Water Company, the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wirth), and the Saudi Crafts Company.

Q12. How does ‘Banan’ align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A12. It supports the National Culture Strategy derived from Vision 2030 by fostering cultural development, economic diversification, and sustainable growth in the handicraft sector.

Q13. What is the Saudi Heritage Commission’s role in ‘Banan’?

A13. The Commission organizes the exhibition to promote and empower the handicraft cultural sector as a key contributor to the Kingdom’s economy.

Q14. Can visitors interact with artisans at ‘Banan’?

A14. Yes, the exhibition allows visitors to interact directly with artisans and observe the production processes of handmade artistic pieces.

Q15. What is the cultural significance of handicrafts in Saudi Arabia?

A15. Handicrafts are recognized as part of Saudi Arabia’s intangible cultural heritage, reflecting the country’s customs, traditions, and cultural diversity.

Q16. How does ‘Banan’ enhance Saudi Arabia’s global reputation?

A16. The exhibition showcases the Kingdom’s leadership in creative design related to heritage, positioning it as a leading destination for cultural events.

Q17. What is the expected impact of ‘Banan’ on local artisans?

A17. It provides a platform for local artisans to gain international exposure, market their products, and develop their skills through workshops and networking.

Q18. Is the exhibition open to the public?

A18. Yes, the exhibition is open to visitors, offering a rich cultural experience and opportunities to learn about Saudi heritage.

Q19. What types of handicrafts will be displayed at ‘Banan’?

A19. The exhibition will feature a wide range of authentic handicrafts and traditional industries, including live demonstrations and interactive workshops.

Q20. What is the long-term vision for ‘Banan’?

A20. The Saudi Heritage Commission aims for ‘Banan’ to become a prominent cultural exhibition locally and internationally, attracting a wide audience interested in heritage and handicrafts.

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