The second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale, titled And All That Is In Between, has opened in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, at the iconic Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport. Running from January 25th to May 25th, 2025, this groundbreaking event, organized by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, offers a profound exploration of faith as experienced through feeling, thinking, and making.
Inspired by a Quranic phrase reflecting the vastness of creation, the Biennale showcases over 500 historical artifacts and contemporary artworks, blending tradition and innovation. Visitors will encounter treasures loaned by leading institutions like the Louvre Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Museum of Islamic Art, alongside sacred objects from Makkah and Madinah, creating a deeply spiritual experience.
This year’s Biennale also features 29 newly commissioned works by over 30 artists from Saudi Arabia and around the world. The curated program bridges past and present, inviting dialogue on themes of spirituality, identity, and cultural heritage. Special sections include AlMadar (The Orbit), celebrating the diversity of Islamic cultures, and Homage, which highlights the role of patronage in preserving artistic traditions.
A standout addition is the AlMusalla Prize-winning prayer space On Weaving, designed by EAST Architecture Studio. Inspired by Anni Albers’ weaving theories, the structure uses sustainable materials derived from Saudi date palms, reflecting a commitment to ecological innovation and cultural continuity.
With its expanded scale and rich programming, the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 establishes itself as a global hub for Islamic arts and culture, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and offering a transformative experience for visitors worldwide.
Photography by MARCO CAPPELLETTI
