Historic Jeddah, November 6th, 2023 – The Royal Institute of Traditional Art (TRITA) and The Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts (PFSTA) proudly announce the Traditional Building Arts Exhibition, showcasing the exceptional work of the first graduating cohort and their accomplishments on display. This event, held at Beit Naseef in the heart of Historic Jeddah, marks a significant milestone in preserving and celebrating the rich traditions of Saudi Arabia through education and craftsmanship. Beit Naseef, an architectural gem in Historic Jeddah, serves as the perfect backdrop for this celebration as it continues to stand as a testament to the region's unique traditional architectural style. 

The Traditional Building Arts Diploma program equips designers and craftsmen with the knowledge and professional skills needed to deliver high-quality traditional work that remains relevant to contemporary life. The exhibition not only highlights the outstanding achievements of the students but also the importance of preserving and passing on traditional arts and architectural techniques to future generations. They have excelled in various traditional building arts, including geometry, nabati, color harmony, architectural drawing, woodwork, gypsum carving, and decorative painting with natural pigments. They have also actively participated in local heritage projects in Historic Jeddah (Al Balad), offering perspectives on preserving tradition in modern times.

One of the highlights of the exhibition is the creation of "Rushan," a wooden architectural feature crafted by the students. Rushan serves both as a privacy screen and a natural filtering system, allowing light and ventilation while maintaining privacy. The intricate wood carving, known as Mangour, showcases the students' craftsmanship. It is a portable and easy-to-assemble wooden latticework used for dividing spaces and creating separation without walls. The exhibition also features decorative gypsum carving and traditional painting techniques using vibrant natural pigments sourced from plants, insects, and stones. These techniques not only add beauty but also represent the rich history of creativity and innovation in traditional art. Historic Jeddah, with its UNESCO World Heritage status, serves as an inspiration and a testament to the vibrant history and culture of the region. The traditional architecture of Al Balad's houses reflects the lifestyle and culture of its inhabitants, making it a place of historical significance.

We await your visit to the exhibition at Beit Nasseef starting on 6^th till the 18^th of November 2023 at 5-11pm.

About the Royal Institute of Traditional Art:

A leading institution that highlights Saudi national identity and enriches traditional Saudi arts. It represents the culture of the Kingdom by enhancing the rich and unique cultural heritage of traditional arts and related artworks, preserving their authenticity, supporting national talents and practitioners, and encouraging those interested in learning, mastering, and developing these arts.

About The Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts:

A leading school in teaching traditional arts and skills that enrich our changing world. We offer programs based on the creative artistic practice of the traditional arts designed to give young people a more holistic view of the world.