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Cultural Institutions
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King Fahd Bin Abdul Aziz presents the King Faisal International Peace Prize. |
Saudi Arabia's emphasis on preserving its cultural heritage is facilitated by a variety of institutions throughout the Kingdom. First and foremost is the nation's education system. Already introduced by their families to Islamic and Arab values and traditions, young Saudis entering school are exposed to literature and the arts. Through their curricula and special events the schools instill in Saudi youths a deep respect for their past and love for their culture.
The General Presidency of Youth Welfare (GPYW) sponsors a wide variety of cultural programs, including literary and drama clubs, folklore classes, library events, arts and crafts as well as science projects. In the drama clubs participants engage in writing competitions and dramatic performances as part of a team. The nine literary clubs throughout the Kingdom sponsor lectures and symposiums and encourage talented young writers. Similar clubs offer Saudis the opportunity to develop other artistic talents. The GPYW is also very active in national and international cultural events, such as poetry competitions, essay competitions, calligraphy and art exhibits to name a few. The organization sponsors a series of regular exhibitions, literary readings and symposiums at its regional offices and at its Riyadh headquarters. It also sponsors the participation of Saudis in international arts and cultural events.
Another organization involved in arts and culture is the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts, which was founded in 1972 and is affiliated with the GPYW. Divided into six committees - cultural, theatrical, music and vocal arts folklore, arts, information and publishing - its mandate includes sponsoring Saudi artists and providing avenues for these new talents to develop and display their skills. In addition the society has established a library and an information center, as well as the Kingdom's first cultural center, located in Riyadh.
The King Faisal Foundation promotes Arab and Islamic culture both within the country and abroad. The Riyadh-based organization awards an annual King Faisal International Prize to individuals who have promoted literature. The King Fahd Library in Riyadh has one of the largest collection of rare manuscripts on Arabic and Islamic literature and the arts and is a premiere research facility in the Middle East .
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