The second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale, titled And All That Is In Between, has officially opened in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, offering an extraordinary cultural experience. Running until May 25, 2025, this Biennale explores the theme of how faith is experienced, expressed, and celebrated across cultures through art, feelings, and thought. Hosted in the iconic Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, the exhibition serves as a powerful intersection of historical Islamic art and contemporary works, providing visitors with a rich sensory and intellectual exploration.
Global Participation and New Commissions
Over 30 international institutions from across the globe are taking part in the Biennale, including from countries such as Denmark, Egypt, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kuwait, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom. The exhibition features the work of more than 30 artists, with 29 new commissions that are created in dialogue with historical objects on display. These works emphasize the ongoing relevance and evolution of Islamic art in contemporary contexts.
The event offers visitors a unique opportunity to view treasured artifacts and artworks from sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah, with the most notable being the Kiswah— the cloth that covers the Holy Kaaba, which is on display for the first time outside of Makkah. This rare display marks a significant cultural moment, allowing visitors to witness an iconic symbol of Islamic heritage in person.
Thematic Exploration and Artistic Direction
The title And All That Is In Between draws inspiration from a Quranic verse that celebrates the majesty of God’s creation. The exhibition’s curators, including Artistic Directors Julian Raby, Amin Jaffer, and Abdul Rahman Azzam, along with Saudi curator Muhannad Shono, have conceptualized the Biennale to showcase how Islamic faith and culture have been interpreted through art across the centuries, reflecting the evolving expressions of human connection with the divine.
The exhibition spans five halls and outdoor spaces, featuring over 500 objects and artworks, including significant loans from prestigious institutions such as the Louvre (Paris), Victoria and Albert Museum (London), Museum of Islamic Art (Doha), and the Ahmed Baba Institute of Higher Learning (Timbuktu). This global collaboration enables a broader perspective on Islamic arts and opens new channels for cultural exchange.
Innovative Design and Public Programs
This year’s Biennale also celebrates innovative architecture, with a structure inspired by regional weaving traditions, designed by EAST Architecture Studio. The winning design for the AlMusalla Prize incorporates sustainable materials, including waste from local date palm trees, demonstrating the intersection of art, culture, and environmental consciousness.
In addition to the exhibition, the Biennale offers a range of public programs, including workshops, talks, symposia, and community initiatives that engage both children and adults. Notable programs include Biennale After School and Biennale After Work, which provide creative outlets through hands-on art activities. The Turuq: The Many Ways of Food symposium explores the culinary diversity of the Arab world, further enriching the cultural experience.
In a statement, Artistic Director Julian Raby emphasized the significance of the Biennale, stating: “This Biennale represents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of faith, creativity, and culture, through the lens of Islamic art. It is a celebration of how these concepts are continually reinterpreted across cultures and generations.”
The 2025 Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah is not just an exhibition; it is an immersive journey into the rich and diverse world of Islamic culture, offering both historical insight and contemporary reflections. With its global reach and interactive programs, the Biennale stands as a testament to the enduring power of art in bridging cultures and fostering dialogue.