RIYADH: In the Year of Handicrafts, no other event highlights heritage more than the annual Banan festival, which is celebrating handicrafts from more than 20 countries until Nov. 26 in Riyadh.
The event underlines national efforts to spotlight Saudi handicrafts and empower practitioners, while it provides a space for artisans to come together, with women taking a leading role.
Rahaf Al-Harthi, who has visited the festival, said: “Banan is an amazing place because it shows just how capable Saudi women are in creating. That’s something we’re really proud of.”
Duha Akhdar exhibiting her work at Banan. (Supplied)
Sadu weaving is a traditional Bedouin craft which uses wool to create brightly colored geometric shapes. The festival features Sadu weaving in abaya designs, clothing, keychains and other objects.
