Noor Riyadh 2024: The World’s Largest Light Art Festival Returns With Over 60 Installations Across Riyadh

Noor Riyadh, the largest light art festival globally, is back under the Riyadh Art Project. From November 28, it spans three key locations: King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifah, and JAX District. This fourth edition, themed "Light Years Apart," showcases over 60 light-based artworks by 61 artists from 18 countries, turning Riyadh into an open-air gallery.

The festival features contributions from 18 Saudi artists and 43 international creators. Notable participants include Architect Saad Al-Howede, Artist Asmaa Aljohani, Artist Anna Ridler, Artist Jiyen Lee, and Artist Stefano Cagol. Other contributors are Artist Krista Kim, Artist Stanza, Artist Javier Riera, Studio Atelier Sisu, and Artist Ryoji Ikeda.

Architect Khalid Al-Hazani, Director of Riyadh Art Project, highlighted Noor Riyadh’s aim to make the city an accessible artistic space where creativity thrives in public areas. Festival Director Nouf Almoneef described Noor Riyadh as a symbol of creativity and connection, inviting visitors to explore this year's theme through vibrant installations across the city.

The curators Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag and Dr. Alfredo Cramerotti present "Light Years Apart" as a reflection on the connection between Althara (the earth) and Althuraya (the stars). This theme explores humanity's journey from current realities to its highest aspirations.

The installations are strategically placed across three hubs to reflect Riyadh's historical and cultural significance. The King Abdulaziz Historical Center connects the city's past with its future. Wadi Hanifah offers a natural setting for art displays, while JAX District combines digital creativity with art and technology.

Prominent installations include Chris Levine’s "Higher Power (2024)," a city-wide light projection from the Al Faisaliah Tower that sends a Morse code message of hope visible across Riyadh. In Wadi Hanifah, Daan Roosegaarde’s "SPARK" creates a captivating display of biodegradable floating sparks.

Interactive Experiences for All Ages

Noor Riyadh also provides dynamic community projects such as free workshops, guided tours, family activities, and interactive events. Adults can join photography and mixed media workshops while children enjoy creative activities like crafting kaleidoscopes and puppetry.

Since its start in 2019, Riyadh Art has displayed over 500 artworks by more than 500 artists and attracted over six million visitors. Noor Riyadh has set 14 Guinness World Records, affirming its status as the most impactful light art festival worldwide.

With its 2024 edition underway, Noor Riyadh continues to establish Riyadh as a centre of culture, innovation, and artistic expression.

With inputs from SPA