Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Museums Commission in Riyadh officially opened the ‘Art of the Kingdom’ exhibition at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art in JAX Tuesday, marking the exhibition’s second stop after its successful debut in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The exhibition, which celebrates Saudi Arabia’s contemporary art scene, features works by 17 prominent Saudi artists. It showcases the evolving role of art in the Kingdom, highlighting the country’s cultural identity while addressing broader themes such as memory, modernity, and the intersection of heritage and technology.

The exhibition focuses on two main questions: Is it possible for contemporary art to reflect culture in today's digital era, where information is always in motion? And how can art contribute to reshaping narratives about society and history, deconstructing the past while influencing the present?

The exhibition presents a range of media, including oil paintings, sculptures, installations, and video art. They explore the transformation of the Kingdom’s art scene, from deep connections to local traditions to engagement with current global issues. The exhibition's design reflects both the shared cultural experiences of the artists and their individual perspectives, creating a rich visual narrative of Saudi Arabia’s history, present, and future.

The exhibition also explores two main themes: the desert, symbolizing vastness and life, and the development of Saudi cultural traditions and visual culture from past to present. These themes dive into ideas of identity, environmental awareness, and the Kingdom’s evolving artistic landscape.

Following its first stop at the Imperial Palace in Rio de Janeiro, which coincided with the G20 Summit in November last year, the exhibition attracted more than 26,000 visitors and received much admiration. The Riyadh stop includes new works that were not displayed in Brazil, offering fresh perspectives on Saudi contemporary art.

After its run in Riyadh, the exhibition will travel to the National Museum of China in 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.

The ‘Art of the Kingdom’ exhibition reflects the Museums Commission’s commitment to supporting Saudi artists and expanding their global presence, as well as the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art’s role in fostering innovation and showcasing the best of the Kingdom’s creative practices.