Riyadh Is Becoming a Public Art Destination. The Leader Behind It Offers Her Insights | Artnet News
Artnet News
by Cathy FanFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Riyadh is emerging as a vibrant hub for public art, driven by ambitious cultural initiatives tied to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. At the forefront of this transformation is the Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium, part of Riyadh Art—a flagship project reshaping the city’s urban landscape. Since its inception in 2019, the symposium has grown into a dynamic platform, attracting over 120 international sculptors and embedding their works across Riyadh’s skyline. The initiative operates on two levels: as a public art program and a broader cultural strategy to transform the city.
The symposium encourages artists to use local materials like Saudi granite and reclaimed metal, reflecting both sustainability and regional identity. This year’s theme, “Traces of What Will Be,” was inspired by the site’s historical context, once home to a desalination plant, linking water, nature, and fluidity. The theme emphasizes ongoing transformation rather than a fixed endpoint, aligning with Riyadh’s rapid evolution under Vision 2030.
As director of Tuwaiq Sculpture, Sarah Alruwayti highlights the project’s inclusive approach, starting with an open call to global artists. This strategy aims to diversify perspectives and integrate art into urban planning, creating a dialogue between culture and city-building. The initiative not only enhances Riyadh’s aesthetic appeal but also fosters community engagement through accessible public art.
This cultural pivot matters for art enthusiasts as it showcases how public art can drive urban transformation and national identity. Riyadh’s evolution underscores the growing role of art in shaping modern cities, offering insights into how culture can be a tool for societal change and economic development. For readers interested in art, architecture, and cultural strategy, Riyadh’s journey provides a compelling case study of creativity as a catalyst for progress.
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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/25/2026