Riyadh: Handicrafts in Saudi Arabia represent a deep cultural heritage and a pillar of national identity. To support this, 2025 was designated the Year of Handicrafts to enhance their local and global presence.
According to Saudi Press Agency, pottery is one of humanity's oldest crafts of shaping and firing clay. It remains vital, focusing on creating ceramic and earthenware vessels decorated with patterns inspired by the local environment, using traditional tools and kilns.
Artisan Fay Al-Ghamdi began her pottery journey at age seven with a pottery wheel gifted by her mother. Her studies in textiles and fashion refined her craft. Initially, she ran a carpentry business during university before focusing on pottery that reflects her identity and values.
Fay uses her craft for education, offering lessons to pass on this art to future generations. Each piece carries a story, and she conducts workshops with charities and mental health centers, providing art therapy to over 2,000 children and patients, emphasizing her commitment to meaningful impact.