'And All That Is In Between'
The Diriyah Biennale Foundation has organised the second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. The artistic direction, led by Julian Raby, Amin Jaffer in his ongoing role as Director of the Al Thani Collection, Abdul Rahman Azzam, alongside Muhannad Shono as Curator of Contemporary Art, presents this year’s theme, ‘And All That Is In Between’. les éclaireurs have developed the lighting concept in collaboration with OMA, the exhibition’s scenographers and architects. Five galleries follow one another, presenting diverse themes that showcase both Islamic heritage collections and contemporary art installations. In parallel with these scenographic spaces, the Aga Khan Award-winning Western Hajj Terminal canopy area, designed by SOM, houses contemporary artworks carefully selected by the artistic direction. These outdoor spaces feature bespoke lighting tailored to each artwork, highlighting each project in close collaboration with the artists. Each gallery space represents a theme. Galleries 1 and 2, titled AlBidayah (The Beginning), play with contrasts of darkness and light. This area includes the first display in full outside of Makkah, of the Kiswah – the cloth that covers the holy Kaaba –enhanced by dramatic lighting alongside contemporary artworks. Galleries 3 and 4, named AlMadar (The Orbit), feature backlit showcases that display precious pieces contributed by 34 global institutions. Finally, Gallery 5, titled AlMuqtani (Homage), presents subtle lighting, balancing light and shadow, to accentuate the priceless collections of the Al Thani Collection and the Furusiyya Art Foundation. This space is adorned with immense origami-like structures, made of stretched fabrics that shape the scenography. All interior spaces integrate profile spotlights and track-mounted projectors used for scenographic lighting. The luminous journey guides visitors through a variety of experiences, immersing them in artworks rich with history.
Islamic Arts Biennale 2025
