Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium To Showcase Global Artists Starting January 15, 2024

The Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium is preparing for its sixth edition, scheduled from January 15 to February 5, 2025, at Roshn Front. This year, the event will host 30 sculptors from 23 nations under the theme "From Then to Now: Joy in the Struggle of Making." For almost a month, visitors can witness live sculpting as artists craft monumental public artworks.

The symposium offers a rich public engagement program to enhance visitor experiences. It includes 11 panel discussions on topics like the evolving role of public art in urban spaces. Additionally, there are 10 interactive workshops featuring activities such as natural dyeing and sustainable art practices. Six masterclasses will focus on advanced sculptural techniques, including kinetic sculpture design.

Visitors of all ages are invited to connect with the artistic process and engage directly with sculptors. This interaction provides insights into their inspiration, techniques, and tools. Guided tours and educational trips further enrich understanding of the creative process and Riyadh’s expanding cultural scene.

Sarah Alruwayti, Director of the Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium, noted an overwhelming response this year with over 750 applications from 80 countries. This highlights its status as a premier platform for sculptural creativity and cultural exchange. The completed sculptures will be showcased in an exhibition from February 12 to 24, 2025.

Curatorial Insights

Lead Curator Sebastian Betancur-Montoya and Associate Curator Dr. Manal Al-Harbi curated this year's symposium. They celebrate the artist's journey by emphasizing fulfillment found in creation. Betancur-Montoya stated, "Through this year’s symposium, we invite everyone to connect with the timeless beauty of the artistic process."

Tuwaiq Sculpture is part of Riyadh Art’s flagship initiatives aimed at transforming Saudi Arabia’s capital into a global cultural hub. It aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by promoting accessibility, creativity, and cultural exchange while enhancing Riyadh's reputation as a vibrant arts destination.

The symposium not only showcases artistic talent but also fosters cultural dialogue among international artists and local communities. By engaging with diverse perspectives, it contributes significantly to Riyadh's cultural landscape and supports its vision for becoming a leading global city for art and culture.

With inputs from SPA