Jordan's Art Scene Thrives Through Private Foundations and Government Support
Jordan, known for its stability in the Middle East, boasts a dynamic contemporary art landscape, significantly influenced by private entities such as Darat al Funun – The Khalid Shoman Foundation, which was founded in 1988 in Amman. This foundation is housed in six historic buildings from the 1920s and a Byzantine church from the 6th century. Director Luma Hamdan highlights the importance of nurturing Arab artists through various initiatives, including residencies and exhibitions, all without government support. Meanwhile, the Jordanian government, through the Ministry of Culture, promotes cultural heritage and festivals. Artists tackle political and environmental themes, with influential figures inspiring the next generation, including prominent women artists like Etel Adnan and Mona Hattoum. Upcoming projects include Diwan Al-Mimar and Cinematheque@TheLab.
Key facts
- Darat al Funun – The Khalid Shoman Foundation was established in 1988.
- The foundation is located in Jabal Al Lweibdeh, Amman, occupying six historic buildings and a Byzantine church.
- Director Luma Hamdan oversees the foundation's mission to support Arab artists.
- The foundation operates without government funding.
- The Jordanian Ministry of Culture supports cultural heritage and creative industries.
- Jordanian artists explore identity, geography, political, and environmental themes.
- Women artists are prominent, with 19 of 23 artists in Re-Rooting being women.
- Amman Design Week was held from 2017 to 2019.
Entities
Artists
- Luma Hamdan
- Etel Adnan
- Mona Hattoum
- Samia Halabi
- Mona Saudi
- Emily Jacir
- Suha Shoman
- Fahrelnissa Zeid
Institutions
- Darat al Funun – The Khalid Shoman Foundation
- Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts
- British Council
- Tate
- Ministry of Culture
Locations
- Jordan
- Amman
- Jabal Al Lweibdeh
- Jerash
- Petra
- Middle East
- Syria
- United Kingdom
- Paris