Riyadh, February 03, 2025 – Diriyah Art Futures (DAF) continues to make waves in the cultural scene of Saudi Arabia with its dynamic programming, offering an exciting blend of art, technology, and culture. As part of its inaugural exhibition "Art Must Be Artificial: Perspectives of AI in the Visual Arts," which runs until February 15, DAF is inviting visitors to explore the intersections of artificial intelligence and visual arts through a series of engaging talks, workshops, and hands-on experiences.
The exhibition’s programming kicked off yesterday with an insightful session on art, technology, and beyond, which delved into themes surrounding social and cultural conditioning, and how these elements shape our understanding of art and innovation. This session provided a thought-provoking exploration of how art is influenced by, and often reacts to, technological advancements, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence in the creative process. The discussion sparked deep reflections on the role of AI in the artistic realm, raising questions about creativity, authorship, and the evolving nature of artistic expression.
Looking ahead, from February 13 to 15, DAF will offer a unique educational opportunity with a crash course on audio and music production. This workshop will introduce participants to the basic techniques of the music industry, focusing on how to create, edit, and manipulate sounds and music using Ableton Live, a leading digital audio workstation. This hands-on workshop promises to equip aspiring musicians and sound designers with the skills needed to create digital music, opening new avenues for participants to incorporate technology into their creative practices.
DAF’s role as a cultural landmark in the Kingdom extends beyond its exhibitions. As the first center in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region dedicated to new media and digital arts, DAF is pioneering a space where art, science, and technology converge. The center’s mission is to push the boundaries of creative expression by providing a platform for artists, researchers, and technologists to engage with cutting-edge practices in digital arts. DAF is helping to shape the future of art in Saudi Arabia, positioning the Kingdom as a leading hub for innovation and digital creativity in the region.
In addition to its exhibitions and workshops, DAF offers a range of activities designed to enrich the local art scene and contribute to the global conversation about the future of art and technology. These include public events, educational programs, and residency opportunities for artists and researchers, all of which encourage collaboration and exchange of ideas. Through these initiatives, DAF is fostering a vibrant community of artists, thinkers, and innovators who are exploring new frontiers in art and technology.
As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the country’s economy and cultural landscape, DAF’s commitment to new media and digital arts plays a crucial role in the Kingdom’s broader goals of enhancing its global cultural presence. By positioning itself as a leader in the digital arts space, DAF is not only enriching the Kingdom’s cultural ecosystem but also paving the way for future generations of artists and creators to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world.
With its groundbreaking programming and its focus on fostering creativity, collaboration, and innovation, Diriyah Art Futures is setting a new standard for cultural institutions in Saudi Arabia and the MENA region, cementing its place as a pioneer in the intersection of art, technology, and culture.
