RIYADH: In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Baha region a new wave of female artists is breathing life into centuries-old decorative arts, preserving a heritage once at risk of fading into obscurity.
The area’s architecture has long been a symbol of cultural richness. Visitors are intrigued by the artistry of Baha’s historic buildings with their carved wooden features. Etched, burned and painted, they are testimony to a vanishing craft.
The Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts, backed by the Ministry of Culture, has initiated a series of workshops to revive these traditional skills.
Those taking part learn traditional Islamic, geometric and floral decorative patterns, with several female artists creating striking designs. (SPA)
Ali Al-Baidani, director of the society, said: “Through these workshops, notably the ornamental basics course, we preserve these centuries-old techniques while nurturing a new generation of interested individuals and artists,” he said.
So far, the 10-week program — which features a two-hour session every Saturday — has attracted 20 participants across a range of age groups. Those taking part learn traditional Islamic, geometric and floral decorative patterns, with several female artists creating striking designs.
Abdulaziz Al-Majthel, a calligrapher and visual artist, explained the curriculum covers these styles through both theoretical and hands-on training. Plans are also in hand to exhibit the most significant works produced during the workshops.
He added the initiative particularly empowered women to master skills like wood carving, which are deeply embedded in the region’s cultural fabric and architecture.
Laila Al-Hamid, who supervises the workshops, pointed out how art has historically been a marker of distinction in Baha, influencing everything from the decoration of doors, windows, and columns to personal artifacts.
Trainee Eidah Al-Zahrani said the workshop has transformed perspectives on wood carving and ornamentation, shifting it from a cultural identifier to a viable economic craft.
“Our ancestors carved wood with simple yet masterful strokes, creating a spiritual connection between artisan and craft that bridges time, place, authenticity, and history,” he said.
Badriya Al-Zahrani, another artist, added: “The workshop represents more than just skill development. This is about preserving a handicraft that has resisted both technology and time through programs and workshops organized by cultural institutions.”
In Baha, the legacy of ornamental art goes beyond architectural elements, influencing everyday items from farming tools to traditional attire, ensuring the region’s artistic heritage continues to thrive in contemporary times.
