VENICE, Italy — : The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth) has announced its participation in the fourth edition of the Homo Faber Biennial, organized by the Michelangelo Foundation and taking place in Venice from September 1 to 30, 2026.
Wrth’s participation highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing presence on the global stage for fine craftsmanship, traditional arts and handmade creative practices, while providing an international platform for Saudi artisans and their cultural heritage.
Featured Saudi Artworks
Wrth is presenting three major works by Saudi artisans at Homo Faber 2026.
“Twenty Silent Songs” features Saudi artisan Ahmed Al-Fawzan, who has been selected to represent the Middle East in the central international installation. Al-Fawzan presents the intricate craft of traditional Najdi door making alongside 19 leading artisans from around the world.
“Orbit of Bloom” is a collaborative metalwork creation by Saudi artisans Ayat Dhahi and Revan Abdulsabour, combining traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary artistic approach.
Meanwhile, “Where Clay Remembers”, a pottery installation by Saudi artist Asma Alshamari, explores the expressive possibilities of traditional Saudi arts within contemporary design.
Leadership and Global Dialogue
During the Homo Faber opening summit, Abdulaziz Alsunusi, Head of Design and Production at Wrth, will participate in the panel discussion “Criteria of Artisan Excellence: Shaping a Global Standard.”
The discussion coincides with the launch of the updated edition of The Master’s Touch study, in which the Wrth team contributed its expertise and insights.
Saudi students Almaha Alomari and Hala Alayoubi are also representing the Kingdom through the Young Ambassadors Program. They will take part in a six-week immersive residency in Venice alongside 90 young participants from around the world.
Preserving Saudi Cultural Heritage
The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth) is Saudi Arabia’s premier institution dedicated to traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Established in 2021 as a non-profit institution, Wrth works to safeguard traditional heritage, encourage innovation and empower local artisans through applied education, research and preservation.
The name “Wrth” means “heritage,” reflecting the Institute’s mission to preserve the living legacy of knowledge, skills and craftsmanship passed down from one generation to the next.
