In a monumental step towards establishing itself as a global cultural powerhouse, Saudi Arabia’s Visual Arts Commission has unveiled the curatorial team for the first-ever Art Week Riyadh. Scheduled from April 6–13, this transformative event will take place in the JAX District, featuring a diverse array of exhibitions, talks, and performances under the theme “At The Edge.”
The curatorial team leading this initiative includes Vittoria Matarrese as the artistic director, alongside associate curators Basma Harasani and Victoria Gandit Lelandais, with Shumon Basar presiding over public programs. Matarrese, who previously directed the Bally Foundation in Lugano and the performing arts department at Paris’s Palais de Tokyo, characterized the event as “an extraordinary opportunity to engage with a city undergoing profound cultural transformation.”
Art Week Riyadh promises to be a vibrant fusion of local heritage and global perspectives, with over 35 galleries participating from around the world. The event aims to not only spotlight the thriving local and regional art scene but also to forge international connections, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cultural advancement.
According to a study by the Arab News Research Unit, Saudi Arabia’s investment in its cultural sector is projected to grow by 30% over the next decade, positioning the country as a key player in the global art market. This strategic cultural investment aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, an ambitious plan to diversify the economy and reduce its dependence on oil.
Experts such as Dr. Sarah Al-Amri, a cultural analyst at the Middle East Institute, note that initiatives like Art Week Riyadh are pivotal in redefining the perception of Saudi Arabia on the world stage. “Cultural events of this magnitude demonstrate the Kingdom’s commitment to artistic expression and the nurturing of creative talent,” Al-Amri mentioned in an interview.
In addition to exhibitions and performances, Art Week Riyadh will feature a series of public programs designed to engage both local communities and international visitors. These programs will foster dialogue and exploration of contemporary art, bringing together artists, critics, and enthusiasts in a dynamic exchange of ideas.
Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its cultural infrastructure, events like Art Week Riyadh serve as both a celebration of artistic innovation and a harbinger of the country’s burgeoning influence in the global cultural landscape. This inaugural edition marks the beginning of what promises to be a significant annual event, drawing art lovers and specialists from across the globe to the heart of Riyadh.
