Riyadh, November 1, 2023, The Saudi Ministry of Culture has launched the highly anticipated third edition of the International Biennial of Contemporary Art of the South, known as Bienalsur, at the prestigious Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art at Jax (SAMoCA), as announced in a press release from the ministry. This grand exhibition, aptly titled "Imagine: Fantasies, Dreams, Utopias," offers a captivating showcase of artistry from 26 distinguished artists hailing from Saudi Arabia and around the world. Their works are not confined within the museum's walls but also extend their influence into the vibrant JAX District, transcending conventional boundaries to illuminate the realms of fantasy and creativity.
A notable segment of this awe-inspiring exhibition can be found at the cultural hub of Fenaa Alawwal in the Diplomatic Quarter of Riyadh, entitled "Blur the Borders." This special presentation features an intriguing collection of artworks born from the cross-residencies of six talented photographers from Saudi Arabia, France, and Argentina. These artists engaged in a remarkable cross-cultural dialogue and creative exchange, resulting in a display that transcends geographical borders and resonates with artistic innovation.
It is worth noting that Saudi Arabia achieved a historic milestone in 2019 when it became the first Middle Eastern nation to host Bienalsur at the National Museum in Riyadh. In 2021, Bienalsur made a triumphant return to Saudi Arabia, with installations gracing the JAX District in Riyadh and Khuzam Palace in Jeddah. This edition welcomed over 20 artists from five continents, with a significant representation of five artists hailing from Saudi Arabia, underscoring the country's growing influence in the global art scene.
The decision to host the third edition of Bienalsur at SAMoCA is a testament to the institution's unwavering dedication to fostering cultural exchange and elevating the local artistic and cultural landscape. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the Ministry of Culture's overarching mission to promote culture as a fundamental aspect of everyday life, reaffirming Saudi Arabia's commitment to enriching its cultural tapestry.
Art enthusiasts and the public at large are invited to explore this extraordinary exhibition, which will be open to visitors free of charge until December 31, 2023. However, visitors are kindly requested to register in advance at the following links:
- Bienalsur at SAMoCA: [Registration Link](https://dc.moc.gov.sa/home/event-tickets/51/bienalsur/)
- Bienalsur at Fenaa Alawwal: [Registration Link](https://dc.moc.gov.sa/home/event-tickets/108/bienalsur-photography-exhibition)
This unique showcase promises to be a transformative journey through the world of contemporary art, where imagination knows no bounds, and dreams and utopias come to life in the heart of Saudi Arabia. Don't miss the opportunity to be a part of this cultural extravaganza.
