JEDDAH: The Hayy Jameel Facade Commission is inviting new and established artists in Saudi Arabia to reimagine the facade of the Hayy Jameel art building in Jeddah.

In its fourth year and third open call process, the commission will select a winning artwork that serves as conversation starter between the complex, the community it serves and the broader public.

Antonia Carver, director of Art Jameel, said: “At Art Jameel, we are committed to fostering the role of the arts in public life.

“Through this annual commission which positions the facade as the first point of contact with the Hayy Jameel community, we are providing a platform that propels mid-career artists forward and challenges them to produce a large-scale, highly imaginative work that remains in-situ, front and center in Jeddah, for around 10 months.”

The commission encourages artists to consider the site-specific nature of the project and the technical requirements of a public work.

Sustainability considerations are also appreciated in managing the carbon footprint of the artwork and its installation.

Eligibility is open to all Saudi and Saudi-based artists and collectives, with at least one member required to be a Saudi citizen or resident if applying as a collective.

The commissioned artists will receive a work fee and a production budget managed by Art Jameel.

The jury, consisting of local and international art professionals, curators, artists and museum directors, will select a single work for production.

Applicants are required to submit a concept statement (200-500 words), up to four sketches and diagrams, and an estimated production schedule through the application portal.

The deadline for the facade submission has been extended to May 1, with the launch scheduled for October. Following the unveiling, there will be a public viewing period from October 2024 to September 2025.

Previous works displayed on the building have showcased the talent of artists such as Nasser Al-Mulhim, Tamara Kalo, Mohammad Al-Faraj and Dr. Zahrah Al-Ghamdi.

RIYADH: Nestled in Al-Baha region in southwestern Saudi Arabia lies a treasure trove of ancient architecture in the quaint villages that dot its landscape.

Characterized by intricate designs, the residential buildings, castles, and forts embody a harmonious fusion of environmental adaptability and cultural resonance.

Crafted with precision, these structures seamlessly integrate with the rugged terrain and fluctuating climate, while also paying homage to the long-standing customs and traditions of ancient Arab society.

Seventy-three-year-old Mohammed bin Salem Al-Ghamdi told Saudi Press Agency: “For decades, I have dedicated myself to the craft of stone house construction.”

Currently, he and his companions are diligently crafting a stone room, employing stones as their primary building material. Together, as a cohesive team of builders, craftsmen, and eager participants, they collaborate harmoniously to bring their vision to life. He described it as both a hobby and inheritance passed down through generations.

“In every construction endeavor, we rely on what’s known as the cornerstone, strategically positioned at the room’s corners. Additionally, a lengthy stone, referred to as the ‘link,’ is essential for connecting each stone within the structure. We also use sturdy stones known as ‘Al-Mateen’ or ‘Al-Daher’ to fortify the room’s foundation.

“Moreover, we meticulously place ‘Al-Lazza’ stones, tiny yet significant, within the larger stones, ensuring a seamless fit without any gaps or openings in the room’s structure,” he added.

“Once the corners are meticulously stacked and leveled, I proceed to roof the room with wood. This involves utilizing a series of wooden beams cut to specific lengths to interconnect all corners of the room. Next, I scatter small plants across the wooden framework to fully cover the ceiling, upon which clay is applied to secure the structure. This method ensures durability against erosion and rainfall, further reinforced by specific paving techniques.”

Al-Ghamdi emphasized the importance of post-construction plastering with clay, which not only gives the interior an earthy tone but also regulates the temperature — ensuring warmth in winter and coolness in summer.

He mentioned the practical use of juniper trees for doors and windows, facilitating easy replacement and serving a dual purpose in construction.

Dr. Abdulaziz bin Ahmed Hanash, professor of urban design at Al-Baha University, highlighted the profound significance of human construction in Al-Baha region, portraying it as a living chronicle of urban civilization’s evolution over time.

He underscored the traditional architecture and urban legacy of Al-Baha as foundational elements, inherently distinguishing the region. With its wealth of historical landmarks spanning the Sarat and Tihamah regions, the area has gained the attention of state authorities, who aim to nurture its potential as both a summer and winter tourism hotspot through strategic development initiatives.