JEDDAH — Al-Arbaeen Lagoon in Historic Jeddah has been adorned with global art installations that add an aesthetic and creative dimension, highlighting the convergence of contemporary art with the area's deep-rooted heritage. The initiative enhances the city's presence on the global cultural map by rediscovering the region's visual identity through art. Historic Jeddah now features 14 international art installations integrated into its visual landscape as part of joint efforts by the Ministry of Culture and the Jeddah Mayoralty to revitalize the area and showcase its cultural identity. These installations serve as a living interaction between the past and present, forming a unified scene that embodies the city's spirit and heritage. This artistic endeavor reflects a broader strategy to transform public spaces into open-air cultural venues, offering visitors a sensory experience where architectural heritage interacts with artistic modernity, reinforcing Historic Jeddah as a vibrant cultural destination. The installations have reshaped Jeddah's modern visual identity by introducing artistic elements into the urban environment, enhancing its appeal, and connecting it to the local culture. They also represent part of the city's wider transformation over recent decades, where art has played a pivotal role in shifting from traditional forms to a global visual narrative. This artistic project serves as a model of institutional collaboration, positioning Historic Jeddah as a hub for cultural experiences and a destination that welcomes creativity from around the world. It boosts the role of art in shaping urban identity and fosters public awareness of the value of visual aesthetics in cityscapes. The widespread art installations in Historic Jeddah capture the spirit of the place, open new horizons for cultural expression, and affirm the vital role of art in reshaping cities to reflect their historical uniqueness and future aspirations, supporting a cultural movement that positions Jeddah as a city with a universal human dimension.
