ROSHN Reinforces Support For Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale As Foundation Partner

ROSHN Group, a leading real estate developer in Saudi Arabia and a giga project owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has reaffirmed its commitment to the arts and culture scene in the Kingdom by continuing its role as Foundation Partner for the Diriyah Biennale Foundation. The announcement comes ahead of the second edition of the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, set to unfold from February 20 to May 24, 2024, in the JAX District of Diriyah, a historic town renowned for its creative vibrancy.

The biennale, titled "After Rain," symbolizes a period of rejuvenation and growth, mirroring the dynamic transformations occurring throughout Saudi Arabia. It is anticipated to draw over 200,000 visitors during its 12-week duration, making it one of the Kingdom's most significant contemporary art events. The exhibition will feature 177 artworks by 100 artists, including 47 newly commissioned pieces, spread across 12,900 sqm of indoor and outdoor spaces in the JAX district.

Under its YUHYEEK corporate social responsibility program, ROSHN's partnership with the Diriyah Biennale Foundation underscores its commitment to enhancing community well-being through support for arts, culture, and significant events. The biennale's curatorial team includes globally acclaimed curator Ute Meta Bauer as artistic director, alongside co-curators Rose Lejeune, Wejdan Reda, Anca Rujoiu, Ana Salazar, and adjunct curator Rahul Gudipudi.

In addition to the art exhibition, the biennale will offer public programs accessible to all attendees. These include more than 30 workshops, talks, poetry readings, activations, performances, and screenings of 11 cinematic works by artists. ROSHN's involvement extends to organizing art-focused workshops and panels with local and international artists, researchers, and professors aimed at fostering cultural dialogue and knowledge exchange. Furthermore, ROSHN is set to conduct its signature live and interactive tree planting sessions by botanists and field specialists as part of its Green Initiative.

Ghada AlRumayan, ROSHN's Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, expressed enthusiasm for the continued partnership with the Diriyah Biennale Foundation. She highlighted the importance of arts in society and ROSHN's dedication to supporting creativity and innovation across Saudi Arabia. This commitment aligns with the Vision 2030 goals of empowering communities and enhancing quality of life through a vibrant cultural landscape.

The release also noted ROSHN's extensive involvement in cultural and arts initiatives beyond the biennale. These include presenting the Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium, sponsoring the Al Bisht Al Hasawi Festival in Al Ahsa, participating in Riyadh and Jeddah book fairs, and partnering in cultural talent tournaments. Such partnerships reflect ROSHN's unwavering dedication to fostering cultural engagement and dialogue throughout the Kingdom.

As Saudi Arabia continues to experience rapid change and growth, initiatives like the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale play a crucial role in enriching the nation's cultural fabric. Through its support for such events, ROSHN Group demonstrates its commitment to contributing positively to society and enhancing the quality of life for residents across different regions of Saudi Arabia.