Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman's Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has launched the "Omani Crafts Exhibition: Authenticity and Modernity" in Muscat. The exhibition, which will continue until February 22nd, aims to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Omani crafts while exploring innovative contemporary interpretations.
The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Rashid bin Ahmed Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development, with the attendance of several dignitaries and officials from various government agencies.
The exhibition seeks to highlight the cultural, economic, and social significance of Omani crafts, while also exploring innovative ways to incorporate traditional techniques into modern design. It aims to foster collaboration between craftsmen, designers, and other stakeholders to promote and sustain the Omani crafts sector.
The exhibition features two main pavilions:-
1. The Authenticity Pavilion: This pavilion showcases the rich history of Omani crafts through three distinct sections:
Heritage Collectibles & Discoveries: Showcasing rare and valuable artifacts from Omani craft traditions.
Governorates Corner: Showcasing the diverse range of crafts from different regions of Oman.
Photos Corner: Featuring a collection of photographs that document the history and evolution of Omani crafts.
2. The Contemporary Pavilion: This pavilion explores the contemporary relevance of Omani crafts through two distinct sections:
Contemporary Corner: Showcasing the work of contemporary Omani artisans and craft businesses.
Innovation Corner: Demonstrating how traditional techniques can be integrated into modern design and applied in various aspects of daily life.
The exhibition provides a platform for skilled artisans, including both established masters and promising young entrepreneurs, to showcase their talents and connect with potential customers and collaborators.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism aims to use this exhibition as an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and promoting Omani crafts for generations to come.