Saudi Artist Preserves Al-Qatt Al-Asiri Over Three Decades

Al-Qatt Al-Asiri is a traditional art form native to the Asir region, characterized by geometric patterns and vivid colors, historically practiced by women inside homes. It symbolizes cultural pride and has gained international recognition, being listed as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2017. Saudi visual artist Ibrahim Al-Almaai has dedicated over 30 years to documenting, preserving, and revitalizing this art form, traveling across Asir villages to safeguard numerous examples and deepen his appreciation for Saudi cultural heritage. Al-Almaai emphasizes that while some patterns carry specific local meanings, many designs are created purely for their aesthetic value and represent a human attraction to beauty and home decoration. His work not only preserves this heritage but also highlights the social and cultural significance of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri within the community. Through interviews, he shares insights on the art’s evolving role and his vision to protect it for future generations.