Location: Hosni Fareez Street, Amman
Tel. +962 6 463 0128
The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts (JNGFA) in Amman, Jordan, is a premier cultural institution dedicated to contemporary art from Jordan, the Arab world, and the broader developing world, particularly Asia and Africa. Located in the vibrant Jabal Al-Luweibdeh neighborhood, the gallery is a cornerstone of Amman’s art scene, showcasing a diverse collection of over 3,000 works by more than 1,000 artists from 60 countries. Established in 1980 by the Royal Society of Fine Arts, under the patronage of the late King Hussein and Queen Noor Al Hussein, the JNGFA has grown into one of the Middle East’s leading art museums.
The Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts was founded in 1980 by the
Royal Society of Fine Arts, a private, non-profit organization
established in 1979 to promote visual arts in Jordan, the Arab world,
and developing countries. The gallery’s official inauguration was a
landmark event, reflecting Jordan’s commitment to fostering cultural
dialogue and artistic exchange. Led by HRH Princess Wijdan Al-Hashemi,
the Royal Society envisioned the JNGFA as a platform to showcase
contemporary art from regions often underrepresented in global art
narratives, particularly Asia and Africa.
Initially housed in a
single building, the gallery expanded in 2005 with the addition of a
second building, connected by a Sculpture Park. This expansion allowed
the JNGFA to accommodate its growing permanent collection and host
larger temporary exhibitions. The gallery’s focus on contemporary art
distinguishes it from other Amman institutions, such as the Jordan
Museum, which emphasizes archaeology, or the Jordan Archaeological
Museum, which focuses on ancient artifacts. Over the decades, the JNGFA
has become a cultural ambassador, strengthening ties through artistic
collaborations with international museums and institutions.
The
JNGFA’s mission is rooted in promoting cultural diversity, disseminating
artistic knowledge, and supporting emerging artists. Its establishment
in the culturally dynamic Jabal Al-Luweibdeh neighborhood, known for its
galleries, cafes, and historic architecture, has made it a hub for
Amman’s creative community.
The JNGFA is housed in a complex of four buildings flanking a
Sculpture Park, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor
spaces. The architecture combines modern design with adaptive reuse of
heritage buildings, reflecting Jordan’s balance of tradition and
innovation. Below are the key architectural elements:
1. Building
1
Location and Purpose: Situated on the north side of the Sculpture
Park, Building 1 is the smaller of the two main exhibition spaces. It
primarily hosts temporary exhibitions, showcasing new works, visiting
collections, or thematic displays.
Design: The building features four
floors with clean, minimalist interiors designed to highlight the
artwork. Its modern layout includes open gallery spaces with natural
light, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.
Management
Offices: The ground floor houses administrative and information offices,
serving as the entry point for visitors.
2. Building 2
Location and Purpose: Located opposite Building 1, across the Sculpture
Park, Building 2 is the larger structure and the heart of the permanent
collection. It also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
Design: Spanning four floors, the building features spacious galleries
with high ceilings and flexible display areas. The top floor houses a
specialized reference library with books and periodicals on art, design,
and architecture in multiple languages, as well as a gift shop (Mtjr)
offering books, postcards, photographs, and Jordanian handicrafts.
Cafe and Terrace: The top floor includes a cafe with a terrace offering
panoramic views of the Sculpture Park, the blue-domed King Abdullah I
Mosque, and Abdali Boulevard. The cafe is a popular spot for visitors to
relax and reflect, enhancing the gallery’s appeal as a cultural
destination.
3. Sculpture Park
Area and Design: Covering 7,500
square meters, the Sculpture Park connects Buildings 1 and 2, serving as
an open-air gallery for outdoor sculptures. The park features a
children’s playground, an open-air stage, a Japanese garden, and an
Andalusian fountain, creating a serene and multifaceted environment.
Sustainability: Renovated as part of the Water Conserving Landscapes
project by the Center for the Study of the Built Environment (CSBE), the
park won a Global Gold Award in 2016 by the Green World Organization for
sustainability. It uses water-efficient planting systems, such as
Grevillea robusta and Sophora japonica, requiring minimal maintenance.
The Greater Amman Municipality oversees maintenance, guided by a
stakeholders’ committee including local residents and gallery staff.
Sculptures: The park hosts a rotating collection of sculptures,
commissioned through initiatives like the International Sculpture
Symposium, adding to the gallery’s dynamic offerings.
4.
Additional Buildings
The complex includes two smaller buildings,
likely used for administrative purposes, workshops, or storage, though
specific details are not widely documented. These contribute to the
gallery’s operational capacity.
5. Accessibility
The gallery
is wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and staff assistance available,
ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.
The park and buildings are
designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with shaded lanes and seating areas,
aligning with Jabal Al-Luweibdeh’s reputation as a walkable, artsy
neighborhood.
The JNGFA’s architecture, with its blend of modern
galleries, heritage elements, and sustainable landscaping, creates a
welcoming and culturally rich environment, distinguishing it from more
traditional museums like the Jordan Museum or Central Bank of Jordan
Currency Museum.
The JNGFA’s permanent collection is its cornerstone, comprising over
3,000 works by more than 1,000 artists from 60 countries, primarily from
Asia, Africa, the Arab world, Europe, Latin America, and Australia. The
collection spans a wide range of media, including:
Paintings:
Abstract, figurative, and modernist works, such as Lebanese artist Samir
Sayegh’s calligraphy-inspired pieces or Palestinian artist Laila Shawa’s
vibrant compositions.
Sculptures: Three-dimensional works displayed
indoors and in the Sculpture Park, ranging from traditional to
contemporary styles.
Ceramics, Prints, and Photography: Including
pieces that capture cultural themes, such as Palestinian Intifada
imagery or Saudi Arabian social commentary.
Video Art and
Installations: Experimental works, such as the [Digital] Transmissions
project (2021), commissioned by the British Council and featuring
Jordanian artists like Asiya Alsheshani and Haneen Jaafreh.
Graphic
Art and Weavings: Reflecting traditional and modern techniques from the
Arab and Islamic worlds.
Jordanian Artists: Representing local talent, such as SalahEddin
AlQawasmi and Lina Q. Asaad.
Arab Artists: Including Syrian Fateh
Moudarres, Lebanese Hussein Madi, and Palestinian Paul Guiragossian.
International Artists: From countries like Armenia, India, Indonesia,
Nigeria, and Papua New Guinea, showcasing the gallery’s global reach.
Themes and Significance
The collection explores diverse themes,
including cultural identity, political struggles (e.g., the Palestinian
Intifada), social issues (e.g., women’s rights in Saudi Arabia), and
traditional practices (e.g., weddings, grieving). Paintings of Jerash
and Jerusalem, for instance, highlight the region’s historical and
cultural significance with a blend of antiquity and serenity. The
gallery’s focus on contemporary art from the developing world sets it
apart, offering a platform for artists who challenge Western-centric art
narratives.
The JNGFA regularly hosts high-quality temporary exhibitions, often
in collaboration with international institutions. Recent examples
include:
“Diva!” (2022): An exhibition of Italian fashion jewelry
(1950–2021), showcasing glamour and craftsmanship.
Contemporary
African Art (2022): Featuring works from the permanent collection in
Building 1.
Samir Sayegh Solo Exhibition (2023): A showcase of
Lebanese modernist calligraphy, organized with the Jordanian Lebanese
Association.
Prints by David Roberts: A donated collection from Mr.
George Abu Khader, displayed in recent years.
These exhibitions
highlight the gallery’s role in fostering cultural dialogue and
introducing global art trends to Jordanian audiences.
The JNGFA is more than a museum; it is a dynamic cultural hub with
extensive programs aimed at education, community engagement, and
artistic development. Key initiatives include:
1. Hiwar Art Club
Launched to increase cultural awareness, the Hiwar Art Club holds weekly
events every Saturday, supervised by artist Khaldoun Hijazin. Activities
include lectures, seminars, film screenings, and discussions with
artists, fostering dialogue about visual arts.
2. Touring Museum
The Touring Museum brings art to rural communities across Jordan,
visiting over 400 villages since its inception. It targets schools,
youth centers, and cultural institutions, presenting works from the
permanent collection alongside workshops in drawing and painting. This
initiative promotes art appreciation and discovers young talent in
underserved areas.
3. Factory Platform
Introduced in 2018, the
Factory Platform, curated by Dr. Rocio Villalonga from Spain, supports
emerging artists through open calls for projects in visual arts, music,
theater, literature, dance, and public art. It offers residencies,
curatorial projects, and street art opportunities, integrating the local
community into the creative process.
4. Art and Nature Forums
These forums connect Jordanian artists with their natural and historical
environment, hosting workshops in various regions. Each forum concludes
with an exhibition of works produced by participating artists,
benefiting local communities through engagement.
5. International
Sculpture Symposium
This event commissions new sculptures for the
Sculpture Park, fostering collaboration among global artists and
enhancing the gallery’s outdoor collection.
6. Workshops and
Events
The JNGFA organizes art workshops, poetry readings,
storytelling sessions, musical events, and book launches in
collaboration with artists, writers, and cultural institutions. These
activities make the gallery a vibrant community space.
7.
Publications
The Royal Society of Fine Arts publishes books on
classical and modern Islamic and Arab art, as well as exhibition
catalogs, contributing to art scholarship in the region.
These
programs underscore the JNGFA’s commitment to accessibility, education,
and cultural exchange, making it a vital part of Jordan’s artistic
ecosystem.
The JNGFA is a cultural beacon in Jordan and the Middle East, with
several dimensions of significance:
Promoting Arab and Developing
World Art: By focusing on artists from Asia, Africa, and the Arab world,
the gallery challenges Eurocentric art narratives, giving voice to
underrepresented regions. Its collection is a testament to the diversity
and creativity of these cultures.
Cultural Dialogue: Collaborations
with international museums and exhibitions like “Diva!” and [Digital]
Transmissions foster cross-cultural exchange, positioning Jordan as a
hub for global art.
Supporting Emerging Artists: Through initiatives
like the Factory Platform and Touring Museum, the JNGFA nurtures young
talent, ensuring the vitality of Jordan’s art scene.
Community
Engagement: The gallery’s programs, from Hiwar Art Club to rural
outreach, make art accessible to diverse audiences, reinforcing Jordan’s
reputation for cultural inclusivity, as seen in initiatives like the
Amman Message (2004).
Architectural Innovation: The adaptive reuse of
heritage buildings and the sustainable Sculpture Park highlight Jordan’s
ability to blend tradition with modernity, setting a model for cultural
institutions in the region.
Compared to other Amman attractions, such
as the Roman Theatre or Jordan Museum, the JNGFA offers a contemporary
perspective, complementing the city’s historical and archaeological
sites with a focus on living art.
Visiting the JNGFA is a rewarding experience for art enthusiasts,
students, and tourists seeking a deeper understanding of contemporary
art in the Middle East. Here’s what to expect:
Duration of Visit:
Exploring both buildings and the Sculpture Park takes 1–2 hours,
depending on interest in the exhibitions and time spent at the cafe or
library. Temporary exhibitions may require additional time.
Accessibility: Located on Husi Fareez Street in Jabal Al-Luweibdeh, the
gallery is a 15–20-minute walk from Al Abdali Mall or a short taxi ride
(1–2 JOD) from downtown Amman’s Hashem Restaurant. The neighborhood’s
quaint streets and scenic views of El-Balad (downtown) enhance the
experience.
Entry Requirements:
Admission: 7 JOD (~9.87 USD)
for non-Jordanians, 1 JOD (~1.41 USD) for Jordanians, valid for both
buildings on the same day.
Hours: Open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, closed
Tuesdays and Fridays, and on official holidays. The Sculpture Park is
open 9:00 AM–2:30 PM, and the cafe operates 9:00 AM–11:00 PM.
Wheelchair Access: Ramps and staff assistance ensure accessibility.
Highlights:
Permanent Collection: Offers a diverse range of
works, from abstract paintings to politically charged photography, with
artists like Fateh Moudarres and Laila Shawa standing out.
Temporary
Exhibitions: High-quality displays, such as the Samir Sayegh exhibition,
provide fresh perspectives.
Sculpture Park: A tranquil space with
sculptures, a Japanese garden, and an Andalusian fountain, ideal for
relaxation and photography.
Cafe and Library: The top-floor cafe in
Building 2 offers stunning views and a cozy atmosphere, while the
library is a treasure trove for art scholars.
Atmosphere: The gallery
is described as an “oasis in Amman” and “food for the soul,” with a
tranquil yet vibrant ambiance. It is often less crowded than other
attractions, allowing for a reflective experience, though some note the
lack of English-speaking staff or detailed artist information.
Photography: Permitted in most areas, though visitors should confirm
with staff, especially for temporary exhibitions.
Nearby
Attractions:
King Abdullah I Mosque (1 km): A blue-domed mosque with
an Islamic museum.
Rainbow Street (2 km): A trendy area with cafes,
galleries, and nightlife.
Al Abdali Mall (1.5 km): A modern shopping
and dining destination.
Darat al Funun (1–2 km): A cultural center
showcasing contemporary Arab art.
Limitations:
The gallery’s
location in the backstreets of Jabal Al-Luweibdeh can be hard to find,
and taxi drivers may not know the exact address, requiring GPS or
directions (e.g., near the King Abdullah I Mosque).
Limited
information about artists and occasional lack of English-speaking staff
may frustrate some visitors.
The air conditioning, noted as
available, has been reported as turned off during hot weather, impacting
comfort.
Those expecting extensive Jordanian historical art may be
disappointed, as the focus is on contemporary works from a broader
region.
Location: Husi Fareez Street, Jabal Al-Luweibdeh, Amman 11191, Jordan
(P.O. Box 9068).
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, closed Tuesdays and
Fridays, and on official holidays. Sculpture Park: 9:00 AM–2:30 PM.
Cafe: 9:00 AM–11:00 PM.
Admission: 7 JOD for non-Jordanians, 1 JOD
for Jordanians, valid for both buildings on the same day.
Getting
There:
By Taxi/Rideshare: Costs 1–2 JOD from downtown Amman (e.g.,
Hashem Restaurant). Uber or Careem are reliable options. A service taxi
(white, shared) from downtown costs ~0.50 JOD per person.
By Foot: A
15–20-minute walk from Al Abdali Mall or the King Abdullah I Mosque,
following brown signage.
By Public Transport: Limited bus options
serve Jabal Al-Luweibdeh; the Raghdan Tourist Terminal is the nearest
hub.
By Car: Parking is available near the gallery, though spaces may
be limited.
Tips for Visitors:
Check the gallery’s website
(www.nationalgallery.org) for the latest exhibition schedule and event
details, such as Hiwar Art Club sessions.
Visit in the morning for
cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, especially in the Sculpture Park.
Bring a map or GPS, as the gallery’s location can be tricky to navigate.
Combine with nearby attractions like Rainbow Street or Darat al Funun
for a full day of cultural exploration.
Visit the cafe for a relaxing
break with views of the King Abdullah I Mosque.
Contact: Website:
www.nationalgallery.org; Phone: +962 6 463 0128; Email:
info@nationalgallery.org.
The JNGFA is a cultural gem, offering a unique perspective on
contemporary art from the Arab world and beyond, but it has some
limitations. Its focus on modern works may disappoint visitors expecting
traditional Jordanian or historical art, as noted by some reviewers who
found it “nothing majestic.” The lack of detailed artist information and
occasional language barriers with staff can hinder the experience for
international visitors. Additionally, the gallery’s location, while
charming, is not as accessible as downtown attractions like the Roman
Theatre or Jordan Museum, and its reliance on taxi navigation can be
challenging.
Compared to other regional institutions, such as
Darat al Funun, which focuses on Arab art in a historic setting, the
JNGFA’s broader geographic scope and larger collection make it more
comprehensive but less intimate. Its sustainability efforts, like the
Sculpture Park’s water-conserving design, set a positive example, but
maintenance issues, such as the park needing “more attention and
cleaning,” suggest room for improvement.
The narrative of the
JNGFA as a “major Middle Eastern art museum” is well-supported, but its
impact depends on its ability to balance accessibility, visitor
engagement, and maintenance. For art lovers, the gallery’s diverse
collection and dynamic programs make it a must-visit, but casual
tourists may find it less compelling than Amman’s archaeological sites
unless guided by a specific interest in contemporary art.