By JL Payumo
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has seen its creative community evolving rapidly. Saudis are quickly making a name both internationally and locally as distinct art collectors, artists, and designers. Art has always played a significant role in every nation, and the Kingdom is no different.
Whether it’s a visit to Rock Art destinations that are akin to open air museums, heritage sites that showcase the cultural creativity and craftsmanship, or street art, fine art, and contemporary festivals — cultural explorers will discover that Saudi Arabia has a plethora of art adventures to be had. While this is by no means an exhaustive article, it serves as a simple guide for readers interested to delve into the art culture of the Kingdom.
Majority of the art centers and galleries in the country are concentrated in the major urban cities. There are smaller, private ones being maintained by individual art collectors in various regions, however these places are not as readily accessible.
JEDDAH
We need to kick off this expedition with what is considered the pioneer hub for art and creativity in the Kingdom, Jeddah. This port city in the Hejazi region is home to numerous galleries and homegrown art movements. Visitors should start on Tahliya St, the yellow brick road of art in the western region, where you will find the Athr Gallery, The Saudi Centre for Fine Arts, Jeddah Atelier, and Rochan Gallery, one after the other. The city itself is an open air museum, with roundabout sculptures you’ll come across while driving around.
If pressed for time, a good introduction to Jeddah’s vibrant art scene and vibe can be found at Athr Gallery. A brainchild of Hamza Serafi and Mohammed Hafiz, it has curated an impressive contemporary and modern art collections. One of the biggest multifunctional art spaces in KSA, it plays host to a diverse program aimed to encourage artistic experimentation, interactive installations, and exhibitions that bring together artists, cultural instigators, curators and the public.
Jeddah runs a variety of art events throughout the year, the most notable of which is 21,39 – considered to be the Jeddah Art Week. Behind it is the Saudi Art Council, a non-profit that organizes multiple events, art- based educational programs, and workshops. The 5th edition of 21,39 is still on-going at the time of writing, and will end on the 5th of May this year.
For those wanting to pair their ART-venture with some urban exploration, Al Balad is a must-visit. Apart from the old town of Jeddah being a her- itage site on its own, tucked within its alleys are small galleries, most of which houses local Hejazi artists. The windows and architecture of this area is visually captivating and serves as a gateway to the colorful history of the city.
RIYADH
The capital’s burgeoning art scene is quickly catching up with its Jeddah counterparts; having its own growing number of art gal- leries, as well as cultural institutions and enterprises.
Established in 1999, L’Art Pur Gallery is one of the first contemporary art galleries in the city. Princess Adwa Bin Abdulaziz bin Ab- dullah Al Saud, an artist and patron of the community, founded the gallery to nurture the creative scene and provide a venue for local and international artists to showcase their work. L’Art Pur is also a strong partner for various cultural and art collaborations with embassies, institutions, and industries.
It also houses the L’Art Pur Foundation, which promotes Saudi arts, culture, and heritage. To top it off, the gallery shares the same address with Arts and Skills Institute, the first art and fashion school in Riyadh.
Just across the street to L’Art Pur Gallery on Takhassussi St. is Naila Art Gallery. Apart from running a variety of exhibitions, it has an interesting permanent collection that is open to the public. It is one of those venues you can visit on the weekdays to simply appreciate artworks from both local and international artists.
A new art space that just opened this year but shows great promise is Mono Art Gallery, which is adjacent to Nujoud Mall. Owned by Saudi art collector and gallerist, Momen AlMuslimani, the gallery started strong with an exhibition featuring 24 Saudi artists.
Riyadh is the headquarters of Misk Art Institute, which aims to be an art-centric cultural innovator. The insti- tute, headed by renowned Saudi Artist, Ahmed Mater, has already organized several exhibitions internationally and will be hosting the Misk Art Week in Riyadh this November 2018. It is also developing an art program geared towards harnessing young talents.
It is interesting to note that you can find cafés and restaurants in Riyadh that feature different Saudi artists on their walls. A place of interest and a local favorite is Acoustic Lounge which showcases different collections and artists all year long.
EASTERN PROVINCE
For those with a penchant for heritage art and a taste for traditionalist techniques, Sharqiya has much to offer. Arabian Heritage Gallery, one of the first in the eastern province, is as its name connotes. If you wish to indulge in the crevice of the old and new, Desert Designs gallery has been known to showcase both fine art artists as well as pop culture and contemporary inspired ones. While it was initially started as a private commercial gallery, it has become one of the creative hubs in the east, with events like Loud Art being hosted in its space.
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture has claimed authority in providing a comprehensive view of the Saudi Arabian culture and the different stages of national devel- opment it has undergone in just a short span of time. It also serves as an innovative hub for Science and technology in the Kingdom. The Center is due to open this year to the public, although private visits can be arranged.
ART SPOTTING… From the Streets to the Cliffs
For those who wish to casually stumble upon art, Riyadh has a growing street art community. You can visit the Prince Sultan University walkway, where you will find some artworks that have a Banksy feel to them. They’re actually by an emerging artist named, Turki Al Andas. If you’re looking for something more vibrant and colorful, go for a walk on Tahliya St. Lately, information about Rock Art discoveries have become more available to the public. Several tour operators are already offering trips centered around visits to these sites. Rock Art provides a window into the history of the Kingdom and are quite magnificent archeological wonders.
