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Call for Research Submissions
Mosque: Innovation in Object, Form and Function

Dhahran (November 23 – 25, 2021)

In conjunction with the forthcoming exhibition Shatr AlMasjid: the Art of Orientation, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is collaborating with the Abdullatif Al Fozan Award for Mosque Architecture to host a three-day conference to address the historical meaning, culture, evolution and functions of the mosque.

Ithra and Abdullatif Al Fozan are announcing an open call for research submissions on innovative approaches towards the study of mosques through objects. This is an open call for architects, designers, archeologists, artists, writers, historians and curators to present original research, objects or insights about mosques and mosque-related cultural objects. The conference will take place at Ithra from November 23 – 25, 2021.

Categories of submission include:

  • Research papers.
  • Models, objects.
  • Posters.
  • Audio-visual productions.

The selection criteria include creative ways of addressing the culture, history, functions and meaning of mosques through associated objects.

The conference will focus on submissions that present architectural forms and design elements, as well as objects used in and around mosques such as lamps, windows, furniture, carpets, pulpits, calligraphy and so on.

The goal is a more insightful and expanded understanding of the mosque and its attributes.

The deadline for submissions is January 28, 2021. For more information, please download this PDF.

Deliverables & Timeline

  • Research papers: Abstract of 250 words in MS Word format, Times New Roman font, and letter size 11.

  • Posters: Research statement of 250 words, preliminary images and sketches in PDF or JPEG format.

  • Models and objects: Research statement of 250 words in MS, Word format, preliminary images/sketches of model or object and its proposed dimensions.

  • Audio-visual: Research statement and preliminary clip of the material.

    • Deadline: 28th of January 2021

  • All applicants shall be informed of the review committee’s decision by Monday February 15, 2021.

  • All successful applicants must complete and submit final materials by April 2, 2021

  • Applicants who intend to present models, posters or audio-visual materials will be informed about accepted volumes and size of their work.


    • Committee review: Feb 15, 2021.

    Final Material Submission: April 2nd, 2021

    All final works to be submitted.


    Deadline: May 3rd, 2021

    The conference will focus on submissions that present architectural forms and design elements, as well as objects used in and around mosques such as lamps, windows, furniture, carpets, pulpits, calligraphy and so on. The goal is a more insightful and expanded understanding of the mosque and its attributes.


    Deadline: November 23 – 25, 2021

    To register, fill in the form below:

    Apply now

    Or send your registration submission by email at conference@ithra.com