‘Art of the Kingdom’ Exhibition Opens in Riyadh, Celebrating Saudi Contemporary Art

Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: The Museums Commission in Riyadh has officially launched the ‘Art of the Kingdom’ exhibition at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art in JAX on Tuesday. This marks the exhibition’s second stop after its successful debut in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The exhibition, which highlights Saudi Arabia’s vibrant contemporary art scene, features works by 17 prominent Saudi artists. It delves into themes such as memory, modernity, and the integration of heritage with technology, offering a glimpse into the Kingdom’s evolving cultural identity.

With a focus on the intersection of culture and contemporary art in the digital era, the exhibition presents a variety of media, including oil paintings, sculptures, installations, and video art. The works explore the transformation of Saudi Arabia’s art scene, from its deep roots in local traditions to its engagement with global issues.

The exhibition features two primary themes: the desert as a symbol of life and vastness, and the development of Saudi cultural traditions from the past to the present. It also highlights the Kingdom’s shifting artistic landscape and its focus on environmental awareness and identity.

Following a successful run at the Imperial Palace in Rio de Janeiro during the G20 Summit in November 2024, the Riyadh exhibition has attracted considerable attention, showcasing new works not previously displayed in Brazil. After its Riyadh showing, the exhibition will travel to Beijing to mark the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and China.

The exhibition will be on display at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art in JAX until May 24.