Traditional Craft Of Haili Doors And Gypsum Carvings Captivates At Beit Hail Festival

The "Haili Wooden Doors and Gypsum Carvings" pavilion at the Beit Hail Festival in Aja Park drew numerous visitors. They were captivated by the traditional methods and tools used to create these intricate artworks, which added an authentic touch to the event.

Abdullah Al-Khazzam, a craftsman from Hail registered with the National Handicrafts Program (Bari), showcased his talent at the festival. He shared his journey, starting from a childhood hobby of clay building to mastering wooden door making and engraving. His work includes the old Haili house door made from tamarisk wood.

Al-Khazzam’s skills extend beyond wooden doors. He also creates Islamic gypsum carvings inspired by the region’s environment. These carvings are part of Najdi architecture, used to decorate buildings, entrances, and majlises. Visitors admired these works for their precise craftsmanship.

In addition to Haili doors, Al-Khazzam presented various models like the Najdi door, which has three beams compared to the four beams of the Haili door. These models were appreciated for their detailed craftsmanship. He also showcased traditional carvings for historical majlises in Hail, symbolising social and economic status.

Al-Khazzam’s talent is not limited to doors; he also creates pulleys known as "Al-Suwani" and "Al-Shadad," used on camel backs in the past. His engravings adorn old mud houses with Quranic verses, wise sayings, and decorative patterns inspired by nature.

Visitors were particularly interested in purchasing these traditional doors to decorate their current majlises as heritage features. The festival provided a platform for Al-Khazzam to display his diverse range of skills and connect with a wider audience.

The Beit Hail Festival continues to celebrate traditional crafts, drawing attention to skilled artisans like Abdullah Al-Khazzam who keep these cultural practices alive through their dedication and artistry.

With inputs from SPA