Heritage Commission Wins Prestigious IF Design Award For Cultural Exhibitions

The Heritage Commission of Saudi Arabia has been honoured with the international "iF Design Award", a recognition that stands among the most esteemed in the realms of design and creative spaces. This accolade was bestowed by the IF Design & Jury Awards in Berlin, marking a significant achievement for the commission. The award was secured for the "Design for Cultural Exhibitions" category, thanks to the Saudi International Handicrafts Week Exhibition "Banan", which took place in Riyadh last June.

The "Banan" exhibition's file underwent rigorous evaluation by a jury comprising 132 leading international design experts. The criteria for the award encompassed concept, design, distinction, success in achieving objectives, and functional capabilities. The exhibition stood out for its innovative designs that draw inspiration from the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage of handicrafts. Additionally, the quality of display, color distinction, and the beauty of the heritage pieces celebrated at the exhibition were key factors in winning this prestigious award.

The exhibition falls under the supervision of the Handicrafts Sector, which is one of five sectors dedicated to cultural heritage within the Heritage Commission. Organized from June 6 to 12, the Saudi Banan Exhibition was held under the patronage of Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Heritage Commission. The event saw significant attendance, including Hamid bin Mohammed Fayez, Deputy Minister of Culture and Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Heritage Commission. It attracted a large number of workers and enthusiasts in the field of handicrafts, featuring wide Arab and international participation and welcoming numerous visitors.

Global Recognition

The "iF Design Award" has been recognizing outstanding designs since its inception in Germany in 1954. Representing quality and reliability in design for both users and the design community, it is one of the largest and most prestigious design awards globally. Design experts from various countries participate in this award to select winning designs based on strict examination and high standards. Notably, this is not the first accolade for the Banan Exhibition; it previously won the Paris Design Award "Better Future | Paris Design Awards" in January.

This recognition underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage through innovative designs and exhibitions. The success of the Banan Exhibition at both national and international levels highlights the Kingdom's growing influence in the global cultural landscape.

With inputs from SPA