Art Must Be Artificial Exhibition Showcases AI's Influence On Visual Arts In Diriyah

Diriyah Art Futures (DAF) has announced its first exhibition, "Art Must Be Artificial: Perspectives of AI in the Visual Arts," set to take place in Diriyah, Riyadh. This event marks a significant introduction of new media and digital art to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Curated by Jérôme Neutres, the exhibition will feature over 30 artists from around the world.

The exhibition will showcase a comprehensive history of computer art, spanning from the 1960s to today. It will include works by both regional and international artists. Saudi artists such as Lulwah Al Homoud and Muhannad Shono will display their innovative creations. Their works range from geometric abstraction to digital installations, highlighting Saudi Arabia's creative spirit.

Internationally renowned artists like Refik Anadol from Turkey and Ryoji Ikeda from Japan will also participate. These artists are celebrated for their pioneering use of AI and digital landscapes. The exhibition will honour early pioneers like Frieder Nake and Vera Molnar, who laid the groundwork for algorithmic art.

Notable MENA artists include VJ Um Amel and Haythem Zakaria, whose work explores media, culture, and technology intersections. The exhibition also features contributions from Peter Kogler of Austria and Elias Crespin of Venezuela. These artists redefine creativity in today's digital age through their unique practices.

Collaborative works by Christa Sommerer and Laurent Mignonneau, along with Edmond Couchot and Michel Bret, add depth to the exhibition. Experimental artists such as aaajiao (Xu Wenkai) from China and Anna Ridler from the UK further enrich the event. Their pieces bridge historical narratives with modern innovation.

A Platform for Dialogue

Diriyah Art Futures is not just an exhibition but a platform for dialogue between past pioneers and today's visionaries. Neutres stated that this event aims to explore how contemporary artists are redefining art through AI and computational technology. "This exhibition seeks to explore a profound transformation," he said.

The setting in Saudi Arabia is particularly fitting given its young, tech-savvy population. The term "algorithm" itself has roots in the Islamic world, providing a unique regional connection to the theme of the exhibition. This backdrop enhances discussions on how algorithms are reshaping art creation.

Engaging Public Programs

Beyond showcasing artworks, Diriyah Art Futures offers an extensive programme of activities designed to engage audiences with new media art. These include panel discussions, masterclasses, workshops, performances, and guided tours led by prominent artists and scholars.

These events aim to provide an immersive experience for those interested in deepening their understanding of art's intersection with technology. Tickets for both the exhibition and public programmes can be found on Diriyah Art Futures' official website.

The exhibition presents a unique opportunity for Saudi Arabia to lead critical conversations in the global art scene. By embracing AI's potential, it opens up infinite possibilities for future artistic exploration while celebrating past achievements in digital creativity.

With inputs from SPA