Established in 2020 by the Ministry of Culture, Diriyah Biennale Foundation produces Saudi Arabia’s first-ever art biennales: the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale is held from 11 December 2021 to 11 March 2022 in the JAX district of Diriyah; and a second biennale with a focus on Islamic arts, to be held in late 2022.

At this historic moment of evolution and growth in Saudi Arabia, these biennales will showcase some of the world’s leading artists, drive cultural exchange between local and international communities, promote dialogue and understanding, and further establish Saudi Arabia as an important cultural center.

Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale and the Islamic Arts Biennale, produced by Diriyah Biennale Foundation, showcase many previously underrepresented artists from Saudi Arabia, as well as grow awareness and engagement among domestic and international audiences.

The Biennale is developed by a team of international curators led by Philip Tinari, the event unfolds in six sections, with works from national and international artists responding to a central theme and engaging visitors in a dialogue around contemporary art.

The Diriyah Biennale presents various programs, including workshops, and talks under the theme “Feeling the Stones.” The Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale is divided into eight sub-sections: Talks, Panels, Creative Experiences, Master Classes, Kids Camps, Workshops, Films and DB Art 101. 

The Public Programs are featuring local, regional, and international voices including: Simon Denny, Abdullah Al Othman, Sam Bardaouil, Geof Oppenheimer, Ahmed Mater, Todd Reisz, Manal Al Dowayan, and many others. 

The Biennale is taking place in Riyadh’s developing creative district, JAX, a site that is quickly becoming a center for creative industries in the country.

Read more about the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale.  

Top image: JAX District venues, courtesy of Diriyah Biennale Foundation.

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