The “Two Kingdoms” initiative, held in Riyadh and London, highlighted the shared artistic legacy between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom. Launched by the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth), the events aimed to foster cross-cultural exchange through traditional artistic practices. In Riyadh, British artist Harriet Frances held a jewelry embroidery workshop, empowering local Saudi artists and artisans while promoting artistic understanding between the two nations. The success of the workshops in Riyadh led to a woodcraft workshop at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London as part of “London Craft Week”, where renowned artist Jan Hendzel shared insights into traditional Saudi woodworking techniques. The campaign’s timing coincided with World Cultural Diversity Day, emphasizing the importance of honoring the artistic legacies that define both nations.
For over 30 years, Wrth has been promoting Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage through traditional arts education, exhibitions, and global exchange programs. The institute aims to showcase the shared human values between peoples, regardless of their languages, cultures, and customs. Wrth’s commitment to representing the Kingdom’s rich legacy and supporting emerging local talent aligns with Vision 2030, as it seeks to preserve traditional art forms and encourage further learning and development in these fields. Chaired by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, Wrth plays a key role in providing quality education and training services in traditional arts, while promoting and strengthening national capabilities in these areas.
The “Two Kingdoms” initiative was a success in facilitating cross-cultural dialogue and showcasing traditional artistic practices from both Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom. By providing platforms for artists to share their skills and for audiences to experience different cultural art forms, Wrth hopes to inspire creative dialogues that transcend borders. The campaign’s core tenet of celebrating the intertwined artistic legacies of both nations was further emphasized on World Cultural Diversity Day, highlighting the importance of honoring and preserving traditional arts while championing global cultural exchange.
The workshops held in Riyadh and London as part of the “Two Kingdoms” campaign were well-received, with participants expressing interest in learning and experiencing traditional artistic practices from both nations. Through immersive events and workshops, artists were able to share their skills and insights, fostering greater understanding and appreciation for each other’s cultural traditions. By bringing together artists and artisans from Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom, the initiative aimed to create connections and bridge cultural divides through the universal language of art.
Wrth’s commitment to promoting Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and supporting emerging talent in traditional arts is evident in the success of the “Two Kingdoms” initiative. As the campaign concluded, it paved the way for future opportunities to connect nations through their shared artistic legacies. By authentically representing Saudi Arabia’s heritage and championing global cultural exchange, Wrth continues to play a key role in preserving traditional art forms and promoting cultural understanding between nations. The institute’s efforts align with Vision 2030’s goal of showcasing the rich cultural history of Saudi Arabia while encouraging the learning and development of traditional arts.
