Welcome to the vibrant world of the second Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where the quest for truth, knowledge, and beauty transcends boundaries of religion, culture, and civilization. Abdul Rahman Azzam beautifully captures the essence of this event by stating that these values are universal and belong to all.
By Fabio Colagrande
The ongoing exhibition, titled “And All That Is In Between”, draws inspiration from the Quran and delves deep into the expression and celebration of faith. This year’s Biennale showcases a range of artifacts, including rare items loaned from the Vatican’s Apostolic Library. Among these treasures are ancient Quran translations, texts on astronomy, and a stunning 17th-century map of the River Nile.
Vatican News had the privilege of speaking with Julian Raby and Abdul Rahman Azzam, the artistic directors behind this magnificent showcase. They shed light on the significance of the Vatican’s contribution and the global impact of the Biennale.
‘Only the Vatican’
Housed in the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, the Biennale stands at a crossroads of history and culture. Raby emphasizes the importance of this location, situated near Mecca and Jeddah, two pivotal cities in Islamic history. He highlights the diverse participation from 34 institutions worldwide, showcasing the universal appeal of Islamic art and culture.
The Vatican’s involvement, particularly its unique translations of the Quran, underscores the institution’s commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding across different faiths and traditions.
The universal quest for beauty
Azzam echoes Raby’s sentiments, emphasizing the inclusive nature of Islamic civilization that transcends geographical boundaries. The collaboration with non-Muslim institutions, such as the Vatican, showcases the universal pursuit of truth, knowledge, and beauty.
He praises the seamless partnership with the Vatican, highlighting the values of respect, tolerance, and intelligence that have defined their collaboration. Azzam looks forward to future collaborations between the Vatican Apostolic Library and the Islamic Arts Biennale, paving the way for a harmonious exchange of ideas and experiences.
