The Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium in Riyadh concludes with 25 sustainable sculptures
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City concluded the seventh edition of the Tuwaiq Sculpture, a prominent art event that transformed Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Road (Al-Tahlia) into an open creative space. The symposium successfully presented 25 innovative artworks, blending tradition and modernity, adding a unique dimension to the urban landscape of the Saudi capital, amidst significant public engagement from art and culture enthusiasts.
Roots of Creativity: A Journey of Public Art in the Capital
This event was not a spontaneous occurrence, but rather the culmination of sustained efforts aimed at enriching the Kingdom's cultural landscape. The Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium, in its previous editions, established itself as a global platform bringing together leading sculptors from around the world. Historically, the symposium draws its name from the majestic Tuwaiq Mountain, a symbol of strength and resilience in Saudi culture. Since its inception, the symposium has strived to revive the art of sculpting from local stones, connecting the Kingdom's geological heritage with contemporary artistic expressions, thus making Riyadh a focal point for visual arts enthusiasts worldwide.
Profound sustainability in the works of the Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium
Over the course of nearly a month of live sculpting in front of an audience, the event culminated in the creation of 25 innovative sculptures by a select group of local and international artists. These works embodied the concept of “deep sustainability,” the theme adopted by the forum, through the complete use of local stone, such as Riyadh stone and granite, as well as recycled metals, to produce finished works of art. This approach not only reflects an environmental commitment but also highlights the aesthetic appeal of Saudi natural materials and their potential for sophisticated artistic expression.
Community engagement and comprehensive enrichment programs
The forum's role extended beyond mere visual presentation; it offered a comprehensive community program that enriched the artistic knowledge of thousands of visitors and emerging talents. The events witnessed unprecedented public turnout, transforming the venue into a vibrant, interactive platform that directly connected the audience with artists. Accompanying activities included specialized panel discussions, training workshops, and daily guided tours, providing exceptional opportunities for learning and engaging with renowned international expertise under the guidance of curators Lulwa Al-Hamoud, Sarah Staton, and Ruth Bliss Luxembourg.
Cultural and economic impact: Dimensions that transcend borders
This artistic event holds immense significance, extending beyond the local sphere to reach regional and international levels. Locally, the forum is a cornerstone of the Riyadh Art Program, one of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City's largest public art projects. This ambitious initiative aims to revitalize the creative economy, generate new job opportunities in the cultural sector, and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors. Regionally and internationally, the distribution of these artworks in prominent public spaces throughout Riyadh contributes to solidifying the capital's position as an open-air art gallery and a global art capital, thereby strengthening the Kingdom's soft power and attracting cultural tourism, in line with the aspirations and goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to build a vibrant society and a thriving economy.
The next stop for sculptures
With the conclusion of the accompanying exhibition showcasing the completed sculptures in one location, these artworks are now preparing for their final installation. These contemporary creations will be integrated into the urban fabric of the capital, becoming an integral part of the daily lives of Riyadh residents and serving as a lasting testament to the dialogue of cultures and the convergence of arts in the heart of Saudi Arabia.
