Diriyah Showcases Saudi Heritage, Transformational Projects at FII7

Diriyah Company had a strong presence at the 7th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII7) held in Riyadh. SPA
Diriyah Company had a strong presence at the 7th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII7) held in Riyadh. SPA
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Diriyah Showcases Saudi Heritage, Transformational Projects at FII7

Diriyah Company had a strong presence at the 7th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII7) held in Riyadh. SPA
Diriyah Company had a strong presence at the 7th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII7) held in Riyadh. SPA

At the 7th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII7) held in Riyadh this week, the Diriyah Company, an FII strategic partner, showcased its investment opportunities as Saudi Arabia’s foremost heritage and culture destination to a global audience.
Diriyah Company had a strong presence at the event, with the Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo taking an active role in several panels and discussions.
Reflecting on Diriyah Company’s participation, Inzerillo said, “A giga-project at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s transformation, Diriyah is a driving force for the future of the Kingdom. As we highlight Diriyah's remarkable evolution, we invite residents, visitors, investors, and travelers to delve into its rich history and actively contribute to its unfolding future.”
“We are building one of the world’s greatest gathering places, intertwining rich history and modern culture, setting unprecedented standards for blending heritage into everyday life. We create immersive spaces where tradition blends seamlessly with modernity. By supporting our local communities, we foster a smart, sustainable, resilient, and prosperous future for all,” he said.
The Diriyah Company said in a statement that FII attendees visiting its booth engaged with experts and deepened their understanding of Diriyah's overarching vision. “This depth is reflected in the Diriyah masterplan, drawing inspiration from traditional Najdi architecture. It sets a new benchmark in heritage and urban development, positioning Diriyah as a prominent global gathering place and center of innovation, celebrating Saudi heritage and culture," it said.
A panel on the second day of FII explored the subject of "Advancing Regenerative Tourism.” Inzerillo was joined by fellow leaders from the Kingdom’s giga-projects and top-tier international hospitality brands. Moderated by CNN's Richard Quest, the discussion delved into the potential of private-sector initiatives to rejuvenate the environment and local communities, emphasizing the rising importance of regenerative tourism.



Paris' Orsay Museum Opens up the Wonders of Art Restoration to the Public Gaze

Art restorers work on Gustave Courbet's painting titled "A Burial at Ornans" (Un enterrement a Ornans), created between 1849 and 1850, at the Orsay Museum in Paris on May 7, 2025. (AFP)
Art restorers work on Gustave Courbet's painting titled "A Burial at Ornans" (Un enterrement a Ornans), created between 1849 and 1850, at the Orsay Museum in Paris on May 7, 2025. (AFP)
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Paris' Orsay Museum Opens up the Wonders of Art Restoration to the Public Gaze

Art restorers work on Gustave Courbet's painting titled "A Burial at Ornans" (Un enterrement a Ornans), created between 1849 and 1850, at the Orsay Museum in Paris on May 7, 2025. (AFP)
Art restorers work on Gustave Courbet's painting titled "A Burial at Ornans" (Un enterrement a Ornans), created between 1849 and 1850, at the Orsay Museum in Paris on May 7, 2025. (AFP)

As they painstakingly scrape grime off a monumental painting by French artist Gustave Courbet, the restorers do a remarkable job of ignoring their unusual surroundings: They're watched by crowds of people, many recording on mobile phones.

Paris' Orsay Museum has thrown open to the public a process that often happens behind closed doors.

The cleaning and repairs to "A Burial at Ornans," one of the museum's signature works that Courbet painted between 1849 and 1850, are taking place in a bespoke enclosure with windows for visitors to peer through.

"A great idea," said Jennifer Dasal, a visiting art historian from North Carolina. "If it’s lasting for a while, people can come back and they can watch the restoration over time."

The restoration is expected to take about a year. The painting hasn't had a major overhaul for about 50 years. Layers of varnish that yellowed over time have dulled Courbet's colors. The weight of the huge work has deformed its frame, and its canvas has stitching, folds and tears that need attention.

The museum also plans free guided tours of their work for those who register on its website, with three time slots every Thursday morning from June 5.