RIYADH: An exhibition in Baha celebrated Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural and environmental heritage while showcasing its maritime traditions through diverse artworks.
Accompanying the Theater Tour initiative in Baha, the exhibition saw a strong turnout from residents and visitors, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Those attending praised the exhibition’s diverse artistic content, reflecting the Kingdom’s cultural richness, especially its maritime heritage central to the project, as well as the mountainous and cultural identity of Baha.
The event featured 16 paintings in contemporary styles inspired by the Saudi environment; three photographs capturing nature, agriculture, and harvest; and three Arabic calligraphy artworks highlighting the beauty and authenticity of scripts.
The exhibition also showcased two key elements of national identity: the marine environment, symbolized by fishing, boats, and sea chants, and the natural landscapes and traditional crafts of Baha.
The strong attendance reflected the growing interest in cultural initiatives that preserve heritage and strengthen ties between younger generations and the Kingdom’s artistic legacy.
Those attending also witnessed the craftsmanship behind fishing cages and nets and gained insight into the ancient profession of pearl diving, the SPA reported.
Craftsmen demonstrated the use of natural tools in diving, and the manual weaving of fishing nets, offering a nostalgic connection to the past and the lives of coastal communities.
Organized by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, the three-day Theater Tour initiative in Baha also attracted crowds to the award-winning play “Bahr.”
The initiative takes performances to cities, governorates and villages throughout the Kingdom, and the first phase features “Bahr.”
The production now moves to Jubail from April 17-19, Dammam (April 24-26), and Al-Ahsa (May 1-3).
Inspired by maritime heritage, “Bahr” explores the traditions of sailors’ lives, particularly diving and pearl hunting.
The production is part of the commission’s strategy to promote culture across the Kingdom.
