Marking a major milestone for Saudi’s vibrant art scene, the Art Week Riyadh (AWR) is set to make its debut this April 6-13. With its theme, At The Edge, the event invites attendees to explore the messages of transition and cultural exploration.
This inaugural edition promises a week of exciting exhibitions, discussions, and workshops, as Riyadh positions itself as a global cultural hub!
1. The Flagship Exhibition: At The Edge
At the core of Art Week Riyadh lies its flagship exhibition, At The Edge, which features artworks exploring three central themes: Everyday Life, Landscapes, and Motifs. This exhibition offers a deep dive into the intersection of culture, art, and transformation.
- Diverse Global Participation: Over 45 galleries from Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe will contribute their works. This includes well-known names like Art Jameel, Ithra, and SRMG, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the international art scene.
- Key Venues: The JAX District and Al Mousa Center will serve as central hubs, with JAX offering a mix of exhibitions and studio tours, while Al Mousa Center hosts solo and group exhibitions.
- Prominent Exhibits: The exhibition will feature an exciting mix of new commissions and major works, highlighting artists such as Ahmed Mater, Ayman Zedani, and Maha Malluh. These artists explore the themes of identity, place, and the changing nature of society.
This flagship exhibition sets the tone for the entire event, showcasing contemporary art that pushes the boundaries of traditional mediums.
2. Collections in Dialogue
Curated by Ithra, this exhibition features works from prominent Saudi collections, including pieces by Do Ho Suh, Hazem Harb, and Gregory Mahoney. The collection explores material memory and transformation, drawing connections between landscapes and cultural identity.
3. Abstract Horizons
Presented by the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG), this exhibition delves into the evolution of Saudi abstraction. It features iconic works by Abdulhalim Radwi, Taha Al-Sabban, and others, offering a view of the merging of global influences with local traditions.
4. Art Jameel’s Video Art Selection
This exhibition will display eight single-channel artworks, with a focus on experimental video art. Some of the featured artists include Ahaad Alamoudi, Bouchra Khalili, Basim Magdy, and Ahmed Mater, reflecting a decade of transformation in the region’s artistic practices.
Beyond the Exhibitions: Talks, Workshops, and Studio Tours
Art Week Riyadh isn’t just about viewing art; it also offers a rich program of talks, workshops, and interactive studio tours. The event will feature a series of conversations that tackle contemporary issues in the art world, including but not limited to: Where do the visual arts take place today? Why do collectors collect? Plus much more discussions.
Alongside these thought-provoking conversations, workshops hosted by global institutions such as Christie’s and Sotheby’s will dive into topics like The Role of Patronage in Contemporary Art and Behind the Gavel: The Art of Auctioneering. These workshops will offer deep insights into the art market, art collection, and the importance of patronage in supporting creative endeavors.
The event also features studio tours, giving attendees direct access to the creative processes of artists like Ahmed Mater and Marwah AlMugait.
Join the Celebration of Art in Riyadh
Art Week Riyadh invites art lovers from around the world to experience the city’s vibrant artistic community. With its diverse exhibitions, interactive programs, and powerful impact on the local art scene, this event is set to shape the future of Riyadh’s cultural landscape.
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