Date : 2025 Sunday 19 Oct
Code 29

The 5th Tabriz International Festival of Creativity and Innovation in Islamic Arts and Handicrafts (IRCICA) Kicks Off

Here’s a fluent and professional English translation suitable for formal publication on your university’s website: --- The festival is organized in collaboration with the Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA), affiliated with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and hosted by Tabriz Islamic Art University. It provides a dynamic platform for academic, cultural, and artistic exchange among artists and researchers from across the Islamic world.

The 5th Tabriz International Festival of Creativity and Innovation in Islamic Arts and Handicrafts (IRCICA) has officially begun at Tabriz Islamic Art University. Organized in collaboration with the Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA), affiliated with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the festival serves as a vibrant platform for academic, cultural, and artistic exchange among artists and scholars from across the Islamic world. 

According to the Public Relations and International Affairs Office of Tabriz Islamic Art University, the opening ceremony took place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, with the participation of prominent professors, researchers, artists, and provincial officials.

💠 Extensive International Participation
This year’s festival received over 160 papers from domestic and international contributors, of which 30 were selected for presentation across six specialized panels. Nine distinguished scholars and researchers from Turkey, Bosnia, Tunisia, Switzerland, and Latvia are also attending. Alongside the academic sessions, several specialized exhibitions are being held — including a national calligraphy exhibition featuring works by leading members of the Tabriz Calligraphers Association, and displays of miniature painting, illumination, floral and bird motifs, and lacquer painting, presented by outstanding artists, university students, and members of the East Azerbaijan Association of Miniaturists.

🌍 Remarks by Dr. Ali Akbar Salehi
In his opening speech, Dr. Ali Akbar Salehi, President of the Iranian Studies Foundation, emphasized the role of art in strengthening the cultural identity of Iran and the Islamic world:

“Such events can foster deep dialogue between tradition, knowledge, and technology in today’s world and play an important role in advancing Iran’s scientific and cultural diplomacy.”

🖋️ Remarks by Dr. Mahmud Erol Kılıç
Dr. Mahmud Erol Kılıç, Director General of IRCICA, expressed his appreciation to Tabriz Islamic Art University for hosting the event, stating:

“At IRCICA, we believe that new technologies such as digital design, 3D scanning, and artificial intelligence can greatly contribute to the preservation, education, and promotion of Islamic arts. This festival embodies the synergy between traditional heritage and contemporary innovation.”
He also highlighted the achievements of the previous four editions of the festival and reaffirmed IRCICA’s commitment to promoting Islamic arts, safeguarding cultural heritage, and fostering connections among artists and scholars throughout the Islamic world.

🏛️ Remarks by Dr. Mohammad Taqi Pirbabaei
Dr. Mohammad Taqi Pirbabaei, President of Tabriz Islamic Art University, described Tabriz as a guardian of the rich legacy of Iranian-Islamic culture and art:

“Throughout history, Tabriz has been a cradle of major scientific and artistic movements. The mission of Tabriz Islamic Art University is to preserve this legacy and integrate it with contemporary innovation. The IRCICA Festival stands as a symbol of the harmony between authenticity and creativity.”

🏢 Remarks by the Governor of East Azerbaijan Province
Dr. Bahram Sarmast, Governor of East Azerbaijan, underlined the pivotal role of universities and the arts in regional development, announcing plans to establish a Special Economic Zone for Advanced Technologies in the Basat Industrial Town. He noted:

“The production of knowledge and technological advancement depend on three key pillars: effective university–industry collaboration, strengthening the innovation network, and commercialization of ideas, supported by strong governance. The provincial administration is fully committed to leading this effort.”

Dr. Sarmast also outlined four key priorities for the province’s development:

  • Establishing a Special Zone for Advanced Technologies

  • Reviving the Traditional Art Schools of Tabriz

  • Compiling the Oral History of Azerbaijan

  • Strengthening the Innovation Network and Commercialization of Creative Ideas

✨ Continuing the Path of Innovation in Islamic Art
Having successfully completed four previous editions, the IRCICA International Festival continues its mission in this fifth round with a focus on innovation, intercultural dialogue, and the sustainable development of Islamic art. The event runs until October 23, 2025, and preparations are already underway for its sixth edition, scheduled for May next year.

📍 Venue: Tabriz Islamic Art University
📅 Dates: October 19–23, 2025
🏛 Organizers: Tabriz Islamic Art University in collaboration with IRCICA and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)