JEDDAH: The Saudi National Museum in Riyadh marked International Museum Day on Saturday with a vibrant celebration themed “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.”
The event gathered cultural experts, heritage professionals, artists, and enthusiasts for a full day of panel discussions, interactive sessions, and workshops.
The program opened with a panel discussion titled “Living Heritage in Rapidly Changing Communities,” followed by a compelling session on “Museums and Change,” where speakers explored how museums can adapt to reflect and respond to the rapid societal transformations of the modern era.
A standout feature of the day was the interactive session “Saudi Storytelling and Performing Arts in Museums,” which highlighted the role of narrative in preserving cultural identity and transmitting values across generations.
The session showcased how museums can become engaging platforms for presenting intangible heritage through immersive experiences.
Another key panel, “Technological Challenges in Cultural Heritage,” addressed the use of digital tools to protect and share cultural heritage.
This topic continued in the workshop “Craft and Technology: The Art of Digital Weaving,” where participants examined how traditional craftsmanship can merge with modern digital innovation.
Throughout the event, speakers emphasized the vital role of community engagement, underscoring the importance of museums as inclusive spaces for learning, creativity, and cultural innovation in a rapidly evolving world.
Additional panels and workshops explored the evolving function of museums in preserving identity and confronting contemporary challenges.
