Accesibilidad del arte saudí: exposición «Fragmentos de folklore»

A new chapter in the cultural evolution of Saudi Arabia begins with Fragments of Folklore, a state-of-the-art exhibition that reinvents traditional narratives through contemporary art. Located in the vibrant Jax district of Riyadh, this exhibition brings together leading voices from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Pakistan to explore identity, heritage, and accessibility in the arts.

Presented by Thaa, Mir’a Art, and Triyad, Fragments of Folklore is more than an exhibition: it is a cultural movement reflecting the transformation of Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030. Featuring works by Lulwah Al Homoud, Raeda Ashour, Hamra Abbas, and Rashid Al Khalifa, the exhibition encompasses a dynamic dialogue between the past and the present, tradition and reinvention.

In a time when the art scene in the Middle East is rapidly expanding, Fragments of Folklore is a pivotal moment in the artistic renaissance of Saudi Arabia. This is particularly significant as the kingdom moves from its historical focus on imported narratives to uplifting local voices, showcasing regional creativity on a global stage.

Reimagined Folklore

Folklore is often perceived as static, a repository of myths and stories. Yet, Fragments of Folklore challenges this notion, presenting it as a living narrative, constantly reshaped by each generation. The featured artists are engaged with cultural symbols, calligraphy, geometry, and abstraction, transforming heritage fragments into contemporary expressions.

Saudi artists Lulwah Al Homoud and Raeda Ashour, along with Rashid Al Khalifa in Bahrain and Hamra Abbas in Pakistan, delve into the patterns and motifs that define their respective cultures. Whether through Al Homoud’s mathematical calligraphy or Abbas’s reinterpretation of miniature painting, each artist presents heritage not as a relic, but as a foundation for innovation.

A Cultural Statement in the Heart of Riyadh

Hosting Fragments of Folklore in the Jax district, the epicenter of Saudi Arabia’s contemporary art scene, underscores the role of the exhibition in shaping the nation’s creative identity. Riyadh is quickly emerging as a global art hub, with projects like Louvre Riyadh and Center Pompidou Alula bolstering the kingdom’s commitment to cultural leadership.

This exhibition also aligns with Saudi Artisans Year 2025, emphasizing the continued relevance of artisanal traditions. By bringing heritage into the present, Fragments of Folklore is positioned at the intersection of history and modernity.

Beyond the Exhibition: a Movement for Accessibility

Fragments of Folklore is not just about presenting art, but redefining who has access to it. The exhibition pioneers a model where art is seen as an intrinsic right, not an exclusive privilege. Through mentorship programs, curatorial support, and a clean art shop offering accessible works, it fosters a more inclusive art ecosystem.

Furthermore, the collaboration between Thaa, Mir’a, and Triyad bridges local and global narratives. Their joint effort emphasizes intercultural dialogue, ensuring that artists from the Middle East and South Asia are at the forefront of their own stories.

Saudi Arabia at a Crossroads

As Saudi Arabia gears up to host the FIFA World Cup 2034 and continues to invest in tourism and the arts, Fragments of Folklore reflects a nation in transformation. Once known for its religious and economic influence, the kingdom now asserts itself as a cultural force.

The timing of the exhibition is poignant. Alongside events like Desert X Alula and the Biennale of Islamic Arts, it signals Saudi Arabia’s deep commitment to high culture. Additionally, with Sotheby’s holding its first Saudi auction in 2025, the region solidifies its position in the global art market.

Join -with the cultural account

Fragments of Folklore invites visitors to explore a bold reinterpretation of identity and creativity. It is a testament to a new Saudi Arabia, one where art is lived, debated, and continuously evolving. As the country embraces its artistic future, this exhibition represents both a milestone and a catalyst.

This is not just an exhibition. This is a cultural account. Join us.

All photos in the article are provided by the mentioned company(ies) in the article and are used with permission.