Saudi Arabia is taking great strides toward the future. This development is also reflected in the art scene, exemplifying the fact that Saudi Arabia is a country with a predominantly young population. And so, in recent years, there has been a lively development in the field of art, which is not only reflected in important international art exhibitions in Riyadh, but has also led to the opening of several galleries for contemporary art.
Artists’ works are also always a reflection of the respective country and its society. A visit to art galleries therefore completes one’s own horizon of knowledge about the country of Saudi Arabia and is worthwhile for that reason alone.
And: maybe you will find a painting, sculpture or installation for yourself. Just let yourself be inspired.
A short stay in the city will hardly give you the time to enjoy the art scene in Riyadh in the desirable intensity. And with all galleries, it is important to bear in mind that the artists’ works on display are always only available to view for a limited period, and that the intervals between exhibitions can mean there is less to see on site. It is therefore best to enquire about current exhibitions when you are there. Therefore, it should only be noted here that four galleries are mentioned in unison:
These are firstly Naila Art Gallery which presents esp. the works of domestic artists.
Address: Al Takhassousi Street Bldg 247, #2, Riyadh, +966 11 880 5352, www.gallerynaila.com
Second is Prince Faisal bin Fahd Fine Arts Hall Gallery, stimulating the Saudi art scene, being a hall for displaying artworks and for exchanging creative experience.
Address: King Saud Road / Teacher Othman Alsaleh St, Riyadh 12731, www.miskartinstitute.org
Not far from the Naila Gallery, on the other side of the street, are the exhibition spaces of L’art Pur Gallery, which also focuses primarily on contemporary art by Arab artists.At Takhassuosi Branch St, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12333; info@lartpurfoundation.com; +966 55 064 9931.
Calligraphy is a form of art that is always a pleasure to behold, whether it deals with religious or secular themes. Its incorporation into modern art is particularly fascinating. You might therefore consider looking for a gallery that specialises in calligraphic works.
One such house is Al Ajlan Art Gallery, Prince Muhammad ibn Saad ibn Abdulaziz Rd, Al malqa, Riyadh 13521; alajlangallery.com; + 966 54 218 8482
Despite these galleries being located in what was previously the centre of Riyadh, a district is emerging in the west of the city that will become a hub for the local art scene: the JAX District. I have dedicated a separate chapter to this.
