Hayy Matsuri Festival Celebrates 70 Years of Saudi-Japanese Relations

Art Jameel, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Japan and Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, launched the second Hayy Matsuri festival, running until January 11 at Hayy Jameel. The festival marks 70 years of diplomatic relations, featuring performances by Electronicos Fantasticos! and Daisuke Tanabe. Aimed at promoting cultural exchange, the event includes workshops, a cultural market, and partnerships with Alliance Française, emphasizing the significance of Japanese culture in Saudi Arabia.

JEDDAH: Art Jameel, in partnership with the Consulate General of Japan in Jeddah and Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, has initiated the second edition of Hayy Matsuri, a cultural festival celebrating the synthesis of Japanese and Saudi traditions, arts, and innovative practices. The festival, which commenced recently, will continue until January 11 at Hayy Jameel, commemorating the remarkable 70 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia.

This year’s event includes unique performances by the Japanese music ensemble Electronicos Fantasticos! and sound artist Daisuke Tanabe, both of whom are making their debut in Saudi Arabia. Their innovative projects turn everyday items and repurposed electronics into musical instruments, reflecting the artistic collaboration alongside Saudi artists such as DesertFish, Akram Ali, and Abstract Crew. These collaborations aim to evoke memories and narratives through immersive audiovisual performances.

The festival has already attracted considerable public interest, reporting over 3,000 visitors on its inaugural day. Antonia Carver, the director of Art Jameel, emphasized the significant role of this event in promoting cultural exchange, stating, “Through the Jameel family’s great history of philanthropy and long-standing relationship with Japan through ALJ Motors and Toyota, we have a special cultural connection here to explore through Hayy Matsuri.” She further noted that the year marks a dual celebration of cultural heritage and the longstanding presence of Toyota in Saudi Arabia.

Daisuke Yamamoto, the Consul General of Japan in Jeddah, expressed optimism regarding the event, highlighting its contribution to fortifying Saudi-Japanese relations. He remarked, “Hayy Matsuri strengthens the bonds of friendship and cultural exchange between Japan and Saudi Arabia.” The festival serves as a dynamic platform to introduce various expressions of Japanese culture to Saudi society, with expectations for increased attendance compared to the previous year’s 5,000 visitors.

Scheduled workshops and performances showcase intricate aspects of Japanese and Saudi cultures, offering experiences such as traditional tea ceremonies, Ikebana, Japanese calligraphy, and origami. Moreover, interactive sessions including manga drawing, board games, and cosplay competitions cater to a wide audience.

An open cultural market, supported by Monochrome Community, features over 30 vendors showcasing the creativity of local and Japanese artisans. Notably, Taiyo Matcha has launched authentic matcha products, with founders Anas Jeelani and Ai Nakamura seeking to elevate matcha standards in the Kingdom. Jeelani remarked on the initiative’s goal to provide an authentic matcha experience.

The festival also includes partnerships with Alliance Française Saudi Arabia, set to present a segment featuring French-Japanese cinema. Managing Director Larry Lamartiniere expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, noting its focus on the cultural synergies between France and Japan.

Hayy Matsuri is a cultural festival that celebrates the intermingling of Japanese and Saudi traditions, arts, and innovations. The 2023 edition is particularly significant as it commemorates the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia. This festival not only highlights artistic performances and workshops but also aims to strengthen the cultural ties between the two nations through collaborative projects and public engagement, reflecting a broader commitment to cultural openness in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.

In conclusion, the Hayy Matsuri festival stands as a vibrant tribute to the enduring cultural relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia, showcasing a diverse array of artistic expressions and activities. It provides a unique opportunity for participants and visitors to engage with and appreciate the rich traditions of both cultures. Events such as this are essential for fostering mutual understanding and collaboration, paving the way for future cultural exchanges.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com