Saudi Arabia

The Block

A piece of hand-woven cloth is used for the background of the Saudi Arabia block, created by Sabiha Imran. Bright colours are commonly used in Saudi weaving, reflecting the people’s love of bold design as well as the raw environment of the desert. The predominately geometric pattern is in keeping with the country’s custom of not depicting animals or other living creatures in any art form. A pewter Dallah (Arabic coffee pot) replicates those found in most Saudi homes. As a sign of hospitality, Saudis will typically serve coffee to friends and family on social visits. The tassel and coins embellishing this square are used to decorate the black veils and dress fronts of women’s garments.

Cultural Profile

Saudi Arabia, the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula, is home to both the world’s largest sand desert (Rub al-Khali) and the famous Arabian horse. Arabic, the official language, is one of the world’s most widely used languages, spoken by over 120 million people, in more than 20 countries. An immensely rich and flexible language, it is perhaps Arabia’s greatest cultural offering. English is an important second language.

The people, although very hospitable, greatly value their privacy and build their homes surrounded by large walls. Nomadic tribal groups known as the Bedouin also live in Saudi Arabia. To Saudis they embody the social and cultural values of honour, valour, chivalry and hospitality. Their beautiful silver jewelry is well-known the world over and their song styles and melodies are enjoyed throughout Saudi Arabia. The country is also known for its Sadu, the Bedouin woven textiles made of camel, sheep and goat hair, decorated weapons and utensils, coffee pots and incense burners, basket weaving and pottery, calligraphy, regional dances (including, the country’s national dance, the Ardha), falconry and horse racing.

Saudi Arabians have settled in Canada since the early 1900s. As of 2011, there were around 8,000 people of Saudi ancestry living in Canada.

Sponsor: Sheldon & Rosann Carr