Saudi Arabia's 'Art of the Kingdom' Exhibition Opens at Paço Imperial in Rio de Janeiro

The exhibition sheds light on Saudi Arabia's history, memory, and cultural tradition. (Saudi Museums Commission)
The exhibition sheds light on Saudi Arabia's history, memory, and cultural tradition. (Saudi Museums Commission)
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Saudi Arabia's 'Art of the Kingdom' Exhibition Opens at Paço Imperial in Rio de Janeiro

The exhibition sheds light on Saudi Arabia's history, memory, and cultural tradition. (Saudi Museums Commission)
The exhibition sheds light on Saudi Arabia's history, memory, and cultural tradition. (Saudi Museums Commission)

The first traveling group exhibition of Saudi contemporary art was inaugurated at the historic Paço Imperial in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Sunday.

Titled “Art of the Kingdom”, this landmark exhibition introduces the public to the works of leading contemporary artists from Saudi Arabia, fostering a deeper global understanding of the Kingdom’s evolving art landscape.

Debuting in Brazil, the exhibition will move on a global tour starting with 2025, reaching the National Museum of China in Beijing.

Titled “Poetic Illuminations”, the inaugural edition of this exhibition in Brazil is curated by Diana Wechsler and features 17 Saudi artists from different generations and of various artistic styles, showcasing a diverse collection of artworks ranging from paintings to installations and video works.

The exhibition sheds light on Saudi Arabia's history, memory, and cultural tradition. Woven artistically, it offers audiences in Brazil and beyond the unique opportunity to engage with Saudi Arabia’s cultural narratives and art practices.

“Art has the power to unite people and cultures, and Art of the Kingdom exemplifies this mission,” said Mona Khazindar, advisor at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture.

“This exhibition not only stands as a testament to the incredible talent of Saudi contemporary artists, it also creates a platform for Saudi artists to share their stories and perspectives with the world. By launching Art of the Kingdom in Rio de Janeiro, we aim to foster cross-cultural dialogue and understanding through art, while celebrating and nurturing Saudi artists’ creativity and empowering local talents to engage with the world,” she added.

On the concept of the exhibition, Wechsler said: “Is it possible to approach a culture through contemporary art? How do the visual arts contribute to reconfiguring the narratives we construct about society, memory, the past, and the present? These two questions are the starting point of the exhibition.”

“Through a curated selection of artists and works, the exhibition seeks to explore these themes, guided by the idea that the essence of art, in conceptual terms, is poetic illumination — its ability to symbolically shed light on the world we inhabit, revealing not only elements of our past but also our dreams, longings, and fantasies,” she emphasized.

Two main themes emerge from the exhibition’s repertoire. One is the desert as a definition of space, infinity, and life; the other is the singularity of cultural tradition, and the evolution of a unique visual culture, shaped by diverse pasts and presents.

The stunning setting of Paço Imperial, a cultural landmark in Rio de Janeiro, adds to the beauty and significance of this exhibition, as it creates an artistic conversation between the historical setup and the contemporary works on display.

As the Kingdom proceeds on an unprecedented journey of cultural transformation, the “Art of the Kingdom” exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore the ways in which Saudi contemporary art contributes to shaping new cultural narratives.

 

 



Dubai Culture Celebrates Emirati Creativity on 53rd Eid Al Etihad

The scheduled events reflect Dubai Culture’s commitment to enhancing the presence of heritage and instilling national identity in the hearts of the community, WAM
The scheduled events reflect Dubai Culture’s commitment to enhancing the presence of heritage and instilling national identity in the hearts of the community, WAM
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Dubai Culture Celebrates Emirati Creativity on 53rd Eid Al Etihad

The scheduled events reflect Dubai Culture’s commitment to enhancing the presence of heritage and instilling national identity in the hearts of the community, WAM
The scheduled events reflect Dubai Culture’s commitment to enhancing the presence of heritage and instilling national identity in the hearts of the community, WAM

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is organizing a series of interactive workshops, captivating performances, and cultural experiences inspired by the UAE's heritage and history across its cultural and heritage sites to celebrate the 53rd Eid Al Etihad, Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.

Scheduled from 2nd to 4th December, these events reflect Dubai Culture’s commitment to enhancing the presence of heritage and instilling national identity in the hearts of the community, WAM said.

As part of the Eid Al Etihad celebrations, Al Safa Art and Design Library will host a series of artistic and musical performances on 29th November, along with workshops that showcase the creativity of local talent and highlight aspects of Emirati culture.

Visitors can join a ‘Dukhoon Making’ workshop to craft traditional incense by blending raw perfumes with other ingredients.

Additional activities include an Emirati flag-weaving session, Arabic calligraphy workshops, and henna design experiences rooted in UAE heritage.

Artist Hazem Kurdali will create a mural titled ‘Mural of Union: Zayed and Rashid,’ inspired by a historic image of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Chef Soumaya will offer visitors a memorable culinary journey, introducing them to the authentic flavors of Emirati cuisine.

From 2nd to 4th December, visitors to Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and Hatta Heritage Village are able to enjoy a variety of folkloric and musical performances presented by local troupes. Children will delight in entertainment tailored just for them, while families can taste an array of dishes offered by local restaurants and shops.

Meanwhile, Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, will light up in the colors of the UAE flag, creating a visually enchanting atmosphere. The museum will host a series of cultural and traditional activities, including interactive workshops inspired by local heritage. Visitors can engage in traditional crafts such as dukhoon and jewelry making, among other creative experiences.

Etihad Museum will come alive with vibrant celebrations honoring the UAE’s founding values, offering a dynamic mix of activities that highlight hospitality, unity, art and culture, tolerance, heritage and tradition, innovation, and sustainability. Guests will be immersed in the rich tapestry of Emirati heritage through interactive experiences, such as crafting intricate patterns inspired by Sadu weaving and a hands-on planting workshop symbolizing the UAE's commitment to sustainability and a greener future. Culinary enthusiasts may indulge in the art of Emirati hospitality by customizing traditional dates with a variety of toppings while exploring a selection of F&B kiosks with local and international delicacies.