Ithra Celebrates Spain’s Colorful Culture Through Fashion
You don’t need a plane ticket to journey through the rich tapestry of Spanish culture this month. The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) in Dhahran is hosting “Threads of Espana: Fashion Across the Spanish Regions,” a captivating exhibition that transforms textiles into a passport to Spain’s diverse heritage.
From the dramatic silhouettes of a bullfighter’s traje de luces to the vibrant, swirling ruffles of a flamenco dress, the display brings the nation’s iconic attire to life. Co-organizer Cecilia Revuelta, who traveled from Spain for the event, describes the collection as a careful selection of traditional costumes from each region, representing a deep dive into the country’s sartorial soul.
More Than Costumes: Stories Woven in Fabric
The exhibition features remarkable pieces, each with its own narrative. Among the highlights are three authentic bullfighting suits on loan from active torero Jorge Garcia De La Pena. “One of the capes even has the bull blood in them,” Revuelta notes. “We decided not to wash it… because we think it’s totally more real like this.”
The passion of Spanish culture is further embodied in a selection of exquisite flamenco dresses from a private collector—a true devotee of the art form. In contrast, representing northern Spain, are meticulously crafted costumes from Galicia, fabricated stitch-by-stitch specifically for Ithra. These layered, detailed garments, designed for the rainy northern climate, are described by Revuelta as “real pieces of art,” with some valued at over 4,000 euros.
A Bridge Between Cultures
For Revuelta, the exhibition is a personal passion project and a meaningful cross-cultural bridge. “I think it’s super positive for all the citizens of Dammam to come here, to get to know more about other countries, different cultures, traditions,” she reflects. Her first visit to Saudi Arabia has been met with great interest, as visitors engage with the fashion and history on display.
The fashion show is a central feature of Ithra’s ongoing Spain Cultural Days, which also include workshops and a market selling Spanish ceramics and artisanal souvenirs. “Threads of Espana” offers more than a visual spectacle; it is an immersive experience that connects audiences in Dhahran to the artistry, history, and regional identities woven into the very fabric of Spain.
The garments will remain on display, telling their colorful stories, until the festivities conclude on January 31st. It’s a unique opportunity to stand before living history, where every stitch, layer, and vibrant hue speaks of tradition, identity, and the timeless art of craftsmanship.
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