DHAHRAN: Qatif buzzed with excitement as it hosted a celebration of handicrafts, showcasing the talents of local artisans.
Under the patronage of Qatif Gov. Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, the four-day festival, which ended on Sunday, was held at the Anak Event Hall.
More than 200 booths displayed all manner of handcrafts, from traditional tools and knitted hammocks to jewelry, artisanal perfumes and incense.
The festival featured a “Future Artisans” section designed to inspire young creators and help ensure these ancient skills are never lost. (AN photo)
The event emphasized the importance of preserving traditions and their role in the local economy, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Among the artisans was Mohammad Moghais, a 47-year-old woodworker who builds miniature versions of old-fashioned homes and shops painted in vibrant colors.
“I started woodworking at 16. Back then, there were no modern tools like today’s oscillating saws. All we had were basic hand saws,” he told Arab News.
The event highlights ’s support for traditional crafts and their economic role. (AN photo)
Moghais’ first project was a small chair and from there he progressed to making tables, wardrobes and sofas.
“The focus at first was on traditional crafts. We would take discarded wood and repurpose it,” he said. “I always find ways to improve my craft.”
Moghais said he was motivated by the changes he saw to his neighborhood following a renovation project that threatened its character.
The festival featured a “Future Artisans” section designed to inspire young creators and help ensure these ancient skills are never lost. (AN photo)
“It really hurt me to see that,” he said. “So I started making wooden fixtures, decorative pieces and items that reflected our traditional artistry, just like our forefathers used to make. That’s how I’ve continued my work over the years.”
Mohammad Alosaif is another of Qatif’s artisans, who showcased his expertise in crafting tin into everyday items like kettles and pots, a skill he learned from his father.
“I feel that the Kingdom’s ongoing support for these traditional crafts is essential, as they form the foundation of many modern industries,” he said.
The festival featured a “Future Artisans” section designed to inspire young creators and help ensure these ancient skills are never lost. (AN photo)
“It may be an old craft, but it evolves alongside modern industries. For example, tin was once used for oil cans, butter containers and paint cans. Craftsmen would cut the tin into sheets, shape, press and refine it, then mold it into various forms, emboss it and polish it to create useful items.”
For visitors, the event provided a rich tapestry of craftsmanship that told stories of heritage and artistic expression. There were also workshops at which people engaged in a range of activities, like macrame and making incense holders and soap.
The festival also featured a “Future Artisans” section designed to inspire young creators and help ensure these ancient skills are never lost.
