When we speak of art, we might find ourselves in a dilemma over its many definitions. Ultimately, art is food for the soul, and what better way to unwind than to be uplifted by the marvellous creations of prominent and upcoming artists? If you reside in Saudi Arabia or are planning to visit the country, the Kingdom’s art scene is definitely something you must check out.
The Saudi art industry is undergoing a period of rapid development and growth. Supported by the government’s increased funding in the art sector, various arts festivals and exhibitions are being established along with the introduction of public art installations, thus the Kingdom is rediscovering and empowering traditional art forms, creating new ones, and opening the door to cultural exchange opportunities by hosting exhibitions of international art.
Scroll down for a roundup of all the upcoming Saudi art events and exhibitions that you must check out.
“Van Cleef & Arpels: Time, Nature, Love” Exhibition
The “Van Cleef & Arpels: Time, Nature, Love” Exhibition will be on display at The National Museum of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh from February 23rd to March 30th. The National Museum of Saudi Arabia and the French Maison, invite visitors to experience the enchantment of the “Van Cleef & Arpels: Time, Nature, Love” exhibition revolves around three themes that have been key to the Maison since its foundation in 1906: Time, Nature, and Love. The exhibition entails an extensive calendar of talks with regional and international speakers, adult and children’s workshops, and other immersive educational activities.
Book your tickets here.
FAME: Andy Warhol in AlUla
Part of Arts AlUla’s expanding visual arts programme, Arts AlUla brings Andy Warhol to the Arabian desert for the first time with a major new exhibition on view at Maraya, from 17th February to 16th May 2023. Patrick Moore, director of The Andy Warhol Museum is bringing together some of Warhol’s most iconic artworks, as well as rarely seen archival photographs and ephemera, the exhibition focuses on the concept of fame as a key component of the artist’s life and career.
Book your tickets here.
Noor Riyadh’s From Spark to Spirit
The spirit of Noor Riyadh, an annual citywide festival of light and art, continues with From Spark to Spirit exhibition. The city-wide public art installation that lit up the Saudi Capital with From Spark to Spirit is a must-visit for those who missed the latest edition of Noor Riyadh. Thirty artists from Saudi Arabia and around the world exhibit their work in three themed spaces – Technologies of Light, Architectonics of Light, and Consciousness of Light. The JAX District will continue to light up the city with creations by local and international artists until 10th March.
Book your tickets here.
Islamic Arts Biennale
With the drive to showcase the art and creativity of Islamic culture, from both the past and present, The Diriyah Biennale Foundation presents Islamic Arts Biennale-themed Awwal Bayt (First House)-from 23rd January to 23rd April 23rd in Jeddah. Mixing traditions and modernity, the exhibition aims to showcase the art and creativity of Islamic culture, from both the past and present. Including Saudi artists Ahmed Mater and Sultan Bin Fahd, Egyptian artist Huda Lutfi and Iranian-born Shahpour Pouyan, 44 artists will be among the artist participating.
Book your tickets here.
