RIYADH: Arab media professionals attending the Noor Riyadh festival have highlighted the significant artistic activity in Saudi Arabia, noting that the movement drives creativity and innovation in the Kingdom’s contemporary arts scene.
Noor Riyadh serves as a platform for cultural exchange, aligning with Riyadh Art’s goal of nurturing local talent and boosting the capital’s cultural economy.
The festival, held under the theme “Light Years Apart” until Dec. 14, features artworks by over 60 artists across three hubs: King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifa, and JAX District.
Some 43 international artists from countries including Australia, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Turkiye, the UK, the UAE, and the US are showcasing their work, in addition to 18 Saudi artists.
Sara Al-Abri, a journalist at Oman’s newspaper Al Roya, told Arab News that the festival stood out for its diverse artworks, with the use of modern technologies like digital lighting and interactive art creating a unique experience.
She said: “What particularly caught my attention was the innovative integration of art and technology, adding depth and beauty to the venue.”
She added that the event also embodied Saudi Vision 2030, which promotes culture and the arts.
“I noticed a growing interest in contemporary and digital arts in Saudi Arabia, alongside traditional arts,” she said.
Mohammed Alafthan, TRT World correspondent in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), said contemporary arts in the Kingdom were making enormous strides and almost racing against time to keep up with global advancements, adding: “Saudi society, in all its segments, has a deep appreciation for creativity and visual arts.
Mohammed Alafthan. (Supplied)
“The integration of the Kingdom’s ancient civilization with contemporary arts added a magical touch to the Noor Riyadh Festival.”
Ahmed Al-Fadalah, a writer for Bahrain’s newspaper Al Ayam, said: “The event was truly stunning. I was impressed by the diversity of the artistic forms displayed, reflecting the immense creativity of Saudi artists.”
Ahmed Al-Fadalah. (Supplied)
Al-Fadalah highlighted the high quality of the displayed works, and added: “(This) indicates noticeable development in the local art scene.
“An event like Noor Riyadh demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to driving creativity and innovation in contemporary arts.”
