In a groundbreaking meeting designed to reshape the landscape of Saudi Arabia’s museums, the Museums Commission convened an event titled “Museums and Community Engagement: How Can a Museum Become a Community Hub?” This insightful gathering, moderated by Eman Zidan, director of the Red Sea Museum, brought together prominent figures such as Noha Al-Kadhi, Hassa Al-Sudairy, and Maria Alam. Together, they ignited discussions on evolving museums into interactive cultural spaces that resonate with local communities.
The speakers underscored the vital role museums play in fostering community connections, reinforcing the importance of regularly updating their programs to attract diverse age groups. Al-Kadhi highlighted the necessity of understanding community needs to develop compelling narratives that engage a variety of visitors. By inviting schools and students to participate, she proposed cultivating a new generation of “museum ambassadors,” transforming young visitors into passionate advocates for cultural preservation.
Al-Sudairy drew from experiences within the Jeddah Historic District Program, emphasizing community involvement in heritage conservation through targeted educational projects. She illustrated how children engaged in workshops restoring heritage houses using miniature 3D models can solidify their bond with heritage and culture, broadening their understanding.
Furthermore, Alam emphasized the significance of interactive programming tailored for families, enhancing engagement between museums and the local community. Hayy Jameel’s initiative, which allowed residents to decorate neighborhood facades, was highlighted as a successful venture that intertwines art and public interaction, ensuring a captivating atmosphere that encourages repeat visits.
The dialogue also highlighted technology’s role in enriching visitor experiences. Al-Kadhi discussed the balance between innovative digital experiences and the integrity of cultural heritage. Alam added that merging modern media with traditional heritage not only makes museums more appealing but also provides significant educational value.
Addressing challenges, Al-Sudairy outlined the complexities of preserving heritage buildings in compliance with UNESCO and Ministry of Culture standards, praising community support in these initiatives. The consensus was clear: museums must evolve into vibrant hubs that actively engage with society, inviting participation beyond mere artifact display, thus creating dynamic cultural experiences.
Saudi Arabia’s Museums Commission hosted a pivotal meeting on transforming museums into community hubs. Moderated by Eman Zidan, experts discussed engaging local communities through innovative programs and technology, stressing the importance of appealing to diverse age groups. They emphasized creating interactive experiences and involving younger generations in heritage preservation, ultimately aiming to reshape museums’ roles beyond mere exhibitions.
The transformation of Saudi museums into community-oriented hubs is essential for enriching cultural participation. Key insights from experts highlight the need to continually refresh programming, engage younger generations, and leverage technology alongside heritage preservation. By embracing these strategies, museums can foster vibrant cultural exchanges, ensuring they evolve beyond traditional roles to become integral parts of the community experience.
The article explores the ongoing efforts in Saudi Arabia to enhance the museum sector’s role as cultural centers. It reflects on a meeting organized by the Museums Commission, where experts discussed strategies for transforming museums into interactive spaces that cater to community engagement, educational endeavors, and cultural preservation. This initiative is part of a broader movement to revitalize heritage appreciation and foster connections between young visitors and their cultural identity.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
