Artists worldwide, including Saudi Arabia, were invited to join Riyadh's prestigious Tuwaiq Sculpture symposium. Their fifth edition promises dynamic live setting for thirty talented artists to showcase awe-inspiring sculptures.
The sculptures will be crafted using stone sourced from the illustrious Tuwaiq region and will eventually be displayed across the city as part of the Kingdom's ambitious national public art initiative. The call for submissions will conclude on August 31, with the selected artists set to be unveiled at the end of October.
Throughout the event, the chosen will engage in the fascinating process of live sculpting, captivating audiences as they breathe life into their artistic visions. The symposium will also encompass an array of enlightening activities, including talks, lectures, panels, seminars, and educational programs, some of which will feature the participation of the sculptors themselves.
Khalid Abdullah Al-Hazani, executive director of Riyadh Art, values Tuwaiq Sculpture's role in enriching lives with joyous experiences.
Under the theme of "Dimensions of Movement," the artists will delve into the concepts of progress and expansion, aligning with the contemporary shifts and advancements evident in society. Inspired by the 20th-century creative and social movement of Futurism, the theme endeavors to capture the city's unrelenting pursuit of invention and the discovery of uncharted territory.
Marek Wolynsky, a seasoned curator specializing in significant projects and cross-sector collaborations, will be leading a panel of distinguished jurors and experts.
A minimum of five years of experience creating sculptures and exhibiting them in galleries and outdoor settings is required of prospective participants. The submission of ideas that pertain to the curatorial subject is also requested of eligible candidates in order to further enhance and contextualize their prospective contributions.
The thirty chosen artists will receive a great reward of a three-week stay in Riyadh with all expenses covered, providing them with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the city's vibrant artistic atmosphere while meticulously crafting their sculptures using the rich, locally-sourced granite, available in three captivating colors.
Upon completion, the masterpieces will be showcased in an awe-inspiring exhibition before being integrated into Riyadh's urban landscape, becoming a permanent part of the city's artistic legacy.
Since its first event, Tuwaiq Sculpture's yearly symposiums have welcomed thousands of eager attendees and been honored by the presence of over 90 illustrious artists. The program beautifully mirrors Riyadh Art's unwavering commitment to enriching the city's cultural landscape through art, leading to the installation of over a thousand public art pieces in various neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces.