Under the unifying slogan “Art for All”, the Saudi capital has transformed into a vibrant hub of creative expression as Riyadh Art Week unfolds across 13 cultural venues. Organised by the Visual Arts Commission, the event brings together artists from Saudi Arabia and around the world to showcase diverse styles, techniques, and perspectives — all aimed at reinforcing the Kingdom’s vision of becoming a global centre for art and culture.
The initiative is part of the broader Saudi Vision 2030, which positions art not only as a preserver of heritage but also as a vehicle for innovation, dialogue, and national identity. Riyadh Art Week invites visitors of all ages to engage with art through exhibitions, workshops, performances, and panel discussions.
Over 100 Events, 200 Artists, and 50 Galleries
Running until April 13, the event features more than 100 different programmes presented by over 200 artists and 50 galleries, drawing families, enthusiasts, and collectors alike. Events include interactive workshops, discussion sessions, and live performances that aim to bridge the gap between the public and the often exclusive world of visual art.
“On the Edge of the Horizon” Exhibition
At the heart of the festival is the flagship exhibition, “On the Edge of the Horizon”, held in Riyadh’s creative JAX District. The exhibit features works from 30 local, regional, and international galleries, offering a panoramic view of contemporary visual art while spotlighting the evolving creative identity of Saudi Arabia within the MENA region. Attendees can also participate in hands-on workshops led by Saudi and international artists, including sessions on pottery, narrative drawing, and still life techniques.
Celebrating Saudi Creativity and International Dialogue
Artworks from major Saudi organisations are on display, including contributions from the Enrichment Centre, the Saudi Research and Media Group, and the “Art Collections in Dialogue” exhibition, which brings international perspectives into conversation with Saudi talent. These exhibitions will continue until May 31, further extending the art week’s impact beyond its initial calendar.
One standout segment is “The World of Silence Sculpture Exhibition”, hosted by the Pure Art Foundation under the leadership of Princess Adwa bint Yazid. This exhibition fosters artistic dialogue between Saudi Arabia and Egypt through the work of eight acclaimed sculptors.
The Al-Mousa Complex presents a range of group and solo shows, including the women-led exhibition “Henna” and the themed display “Eastern Features”.
Cultural Dialogues and Artistic Futures
A central pillar of Riyadh Art Week is its dialogue series, which gathers artists, collectors, and thought leaders to discuss the evolving role of art in Saudi society and the global art ecosystem. These conversations tackle challenges and opportunities in contemporary art, emphasising sustainability, cultural preservation, and the integration of technology.
At the Saudi Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA), visitors can experience two prominent exhibitions: “The Art of the Kingdom” and “Ceramics and Adaptation,” both of which explore new approaches to tradition and materiality in Saudi art.
A Vision for a Creative Future
Riyadh Art Week is more than a cultural celebration—it is a declaration of intent. By opening up contemporary art to new audiences and amplifying local voices alongside international ones, Saudi Arabia is redefining its image on the world stage. As a cornerstone of Vision 2030, the initiative affirms that art is not only a source of inspiration, but also a contributor to the national economy, education, and the collective imagination of future generations.
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