Arab diasporas have been steadfast in preserving and sharing their cultural heritage while fostering an appreciation for Arab culture in their host societies. Their contributions span art, literature, culinary arts, performing arts, music, and craftsmanship, enriching the global cultural tapestry.
Eminent Cultural Ambassadors
Notable figures like Amin Maalouf, a Lebanese-born French writer, have played a pivotal role. Maalouf’s works, translated into over 40 languages, explore themes of diversity, diaspora, and human stories. His efforts were honored with the French National Order of Merit for bridging East and West.
Khalil Gibran, a Lebanese emigrant to the US in 1895, is revered as a cherished poet, writer, and artist. His masterpiece, “The Prophet,” published in 1923, ranks among the ten most-translated books globally. Gibran’s legacy is celebrated, with the Gibran Khalil Gibran Promenade inaugurated in Paris in 2017.
Cultural Institutions as Catalysts
Cultural institutions play a pivotal role in fostering interest in Arab culture across borders. They serve as bridges, promoting inclusivity, tolerance, and understanding. Several institutions worldwide offer impactful programs to engage local audiences.
A Showcase of Arab Art
In London, Christie’s hosted a compelling exhibition spotlighting visionary Arab artists, with a particular focus on Emirati talent. This exhibit, a collaboration between the UAE’s Ministry of Culture and Youth and the Barjeel Art Foundation, celebrated modern and contemporary art, spanning 84 years. It shed light on historical, political, and artistic influences that shaped the works.
Arab World Institute: A Cultural Beacon
The Arab World Institute in Paris is renowned for its contributions to the understanding and appreciation of Arab culture. Established in 1987, it houses a world-class museum showcasing modern and contemporary Arab art, Islamic art, and ethnography. The institute collaborates with regional museums, such as the National Museum of Saudi Arabia and the Bahrain National Museum, to display priceless works. It also oversees the Arab Literature Prize, recognizing outstanding literary contributions by authors.
Unveiling AlUla’s Treasures
The Arab World Institute hosted the remarkable exhibition “AlUla: Wonder of Arabia” in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Royal Commission for AlUla. This immersive exhibit transported visitors through AlUla’s 7,000-year history, highlighting the ancient civilizations of Dadan, Lihyan, and the Nabataean city of Hegra. The exhibition offered a sensory journey through time, celebrating Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Fostering Global Collaboration
Regional governments can partner with international cultural institutions to expand their programs’ reach. Collaborative platforms can promote education, engagement, and meaningful interactions, deepening understanding and appreciation of Arab culture.
Diverse Partnerships
Exploring various partnership avenues, institutions can curate cultural exhibitions, offer access to immersive cultural experiences, support literary luminaries through translation projects and residency programs, and organize seminars and courses on culture. Digital platforms can also play a pivotal role in sharing Arab culture with a global audience.
The commitment to promoting culture globally remains an enduring endeavor, fostering connections, dialogue, and a deeper appreciation of this rich heritage.
