Basalt stone carving is witnessing growing popularity in the Northern Badia region of Mafraq Governorate, particularly due to the talents of local sculptors who create artworks embodying Jordanian heritage, values, and traditional customs.
اضافة اعلان
The northeastern Badia, especially the Al-Harra area near Safawi, is rich in basalt stone, the primary material for this art, which has helped enhance the craft’s status and expand its base.
The Mafraq Directorate of Culture organizes specialized training programs and workshops to support artisans and develop the skills of young people interested in basalt carving, as part of broader efforts to preserve cultural heritage and strengthen national identity.
Samir Al-Khaza’leh, Director of Culture in Mafraq, stated that basalt carving is a highly popular art form among learners, prompting the directorate, in collaboration with relevant associations, to organize specialized courses and workshops. The abundant availability of basalt in Al-Harra has greatly contributed to the revival and growth of this artistic practice in the governorate.
Al-Khaza’leh told Petra that a recent course was held in cooperation with the Khairat Al-Badia charitable association in Safawi, led by trainer Mohammad Al-Athamats, one of the most prominent artists in this field, who has produced a large number of artworks.
The main objective of these courses is to enable young men and women to master this art under the supervision of the Directorate of Culture and skilled trainers. The current course consists of three stages: the first foundational stage, completed late last year, involved 25 participants who received certified diplomas in basalt stone carving. The second, advanced stage began in July with 15 participants from the foundational course.
Al-Khaza’leh noted that the Ministry of Culture closely monitors the basalt carving training project, which has been allocated approximately 30,000 Jordanian dinars, emphasizing that the craft is somewhat costly due to stone transportation, cutting, and specialized carving tools.
Currently, Mafraq hosts many talented young artists capable of producing high-quality sculptures. They have secured projects in other governorates, including creating a memorial for Martyr Moath Al-Kasasbeh in Karak valued at 20,000 dinars, as well as a 12-meter-long, 3-meter-high mural at the entrance of Mafraq City.
Trainer Al-Athamats shared that he began carving desert stones in the late 1970s, creating intricately designed works that reflect Jordanian Bedouin life, connecting the past with the present and linking ancient civilizations with modern culture. He noted that basalt covers large areas of the Jordanian Badia, making it ideal for his artwork due to its durability and resistance to weathering.
He added that his choice of basalt was inspired by its historical use by the Romans in several sites across Jordan, confirming its ability to maintain shape and hardness. Basalt represents a significant economic and artistic resource for Jordan, suitable for both art and construction. His works—including calligraphy, Quranic verses, sculptures of animals, birds, vessels, and portraits—also generate substantial financial returns, motivating talented individuals to engage in this art form.
Al-Athamats emphasized that he currently conducts training courses in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture. He has also trained 160 girls through UNESCO programs and instructed a delegation of 18 women from Sweden in basalt carving. He highlighted that basalt art extends beyond sculptures, contributing to city aesthetics and construction as well.
--(Petra)
