The Continuation of a Craft: Exploring Saudi Traditional Costume

Step into a world of artistry and heritage at Ithra Museum’s captivating exhibition, The Continuation of a Craft: Saudi Traditional Costumes. Running from 25 November 2024 to 23 August 2025, this inspiring showcase celebrates the beauty and craftsmanship of traditional Saudi attire, weaving a story of vibrant cultural identity and artistic mastery.

Each piece on display tells a tale - of hands that skilfully combined local and imported materials, of designs that reflected the soul of a region, and of traditions lovingly passed from one generation to the next. Curated by Kostantinos Chatziantoniou, Head of Collection Management, Registration, and Conservation of Artwork at Ithra, the exhibition features a stunning array of original male and female clothing, representing the rich diversity of Saudi Arabia’s regions. Complementing these are faithful contemporary replicas crafted by the Mansoojat Foundation, whose dedication to preserving Saudi heritage shines through.

This celebration of the past seamlessly bridges to the present, with contemporary Saudi designers reimagining traditional motifs in fresh, exciting ways. These modern pieces sit harmoniously alongside the timeless garments, reminding us that cultural heritage is not static but an ever-evolving story.

Jewellry lovers will be enchanted by the intricate Islamic adornments displayed, with exquisite pieces on loan from the Serafy Foundation and Dar Al Funoon Islamiya Foundation. Each item, rich in detail and steeped in history, highlights the remarkable skill of Saudi craftspeople and the enduring beauty of their creations.

Adding depth to this visual feast are the scholarly insights of Dr. Laila Al Bassam, a renowned expert in Saudi Arabian heritage. Her research papers offer a window into the history, techniques, and significance behind the designs, enriching visitor’s understanding of the pieces on display.

More than an exhibition, The Continuation of a Craft is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the human spirit. It invites us to reflect on the threads that connect past and present, honouring the artisans who have kept these traditions alive and those who continue to innovate within them.

For more details, visit Ithra Museum’s website.