Catch artists in action at Tuwaiq International Sculpture Symposium

Sculpture fans are in for a treat because poetry is in motion across the city. We’re not exaggerating: the Tuwaiq International Sculpture Symposium is starting from November 15 and runs until December 5. Participating sculptors will be working on a brief that requests “poetry in motion”. No pressure, then – but at least visitors can rest assured that the results will be spectacular.

The symposium is the work of Riyadh Art, Saudi Arabia’s first-ever national public art initiative, which is spearheading the Kingdom’s artistic renaissance in the commons. Riyadh Art has gathered a group of 20 creators, including both national and international artists. Taking place in Riyadh’s arty hotspot, Al Diriyah’s JAX district, you’ll be able to watch artists at work, as they create public sculptures that will go onto, well, paint the town.

The initial event will then be followed up with a display, which runs from December 7-10. During this period, the sculptures will venture out into the city to beautify Riyadh’s public realms. Across the whole event, there will also be a series of special events and talks, which the public will be able to attend.

We’re especially excited about artists from Saudi Arabia who are exhibiting at Tuwaiq International Sculpture Symposium. The local artists include Rajaa Alshafae and Wafa Alqunibit. Alshafae has been exhibiting in the Kingdom for more than 20 years and received a prize from the Ministry of Culture in 2015. While Alqunibit is known for working with organic materials on a large scale and even exhibited at the Saudi Embassy in London.

Open daily from 6pm. November 15-December 5, December 7-10. JAX District, Al Diriyah. riyadhart.sa/en/events/tuwaiq-international

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