Riyadh, January 16, 2025 – The sixth annual Tuwaiq International Sculpture Symposium officially opened on Wednesday at the prestigious “ROSHN Front” in Riyadh, marking the beginning of an exciting celebration of public art. This year’s symposium, which will run until February 8, 2025, carries the theme “From Then to Now: Joy in the Struggle of Making”, offering a platform for 30 artists from 23 different countries to collaborate and create monumental sculptures using granite and basalt stones sourced directly from Saudi Arabia.
The event aims to showcase the intersection of art, culture, and creativity, with a focus on the transformative process of sculpture-making. During the symposium, attendees will have the opportunity to witness the artists’ creative journeys firsthand as they shape the rough stones into striking works of art. Educational trips, workshops, and discussion sessions are organized throughout the symposium, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the artistic process, the techniques used in sculpture, and the global perspectives of the artists involved. These activities are designed to foster an environment of learning and artistic exchange, giving the public a rare chance to engage directly with the artists and their work.
The Tuwaiq International Sculpture Symposium is an integral part of the Riyadh Art Program, one of the largest public art initiatives in the world, which is transforming Riyadh into a global hub for art and culture. The Riyadh Art Program is designed to create a city that serves as a “gallery without walls”, bringing art into the heart of the urban environment for residents and visitors alike. With its ambitious goals to beautify the city, enhance creativity, and enrich the lives of its people, the program is also aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy and promote cultural and artistic development across the Kingdom.
Through initiatives like the Tuwaiq Symposium, Riyadh is working to establish itself as a center for global artistic expression while nurturing the talent and creative potential of local and international artists. The event also contributes to the Kingdom's broader vision of cultivating a vibrant art scene, encouraging dialogue among cultures, and strengthening the role of art in shaping the city’s identity. With public art installations popping up throughout Riyadh and continued cultural programming, the symposium serves as an exciting opportunity for both seasoned art enthusiasts and newcomers to experience firsthand the power of art in building community and connection.
As the symposium progresses over the next several weeks, the public can expect to see the completion of awe-inspiring sculptures and engage in meaningful discussions on the intersection of art and culture, all within the vibrant, dynamic setting of Riyadh. The Tuwaiq International Sculpture Symposium exemplifies the Kingdom's dedication to fostering a thriving art community and its ongoing efforts to position Riyadh as a world-class destination for cultural exchange and creative expression.
