As the Middle East embraces a cultural renaissance, Diriyah Art Futures (DAF) stands out as a groundbreaking hub for new media arts. Located in the historic Diriyah district of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—this state-of-the-art 12,000-square-meter facility blends creativity with cutting-edge technology.
Highlights of Diriyah Art Futures
1. DAF Launch and Facilities
Opening its doors to the public, DAF is designed to break barriers between creative practices. The complex includes advanced facilities such as VR/AR production studios, motion capture and foley rooms, a dark room, a fabrication lab with 3D printers, CNC machines, and a laser cutter. Visitors can also explore an exhibition space, a theatre, classrooms, a restaurant, and a gift shop.
2. Inaugural Exhibition: Art Must Be Artificial
Dates: Until February 15, 2025
Curator: Jérôme Neutres
Focus: The history of AI and computer art from the 1960s to today.
The exhibition showcases works by 32 global and regional artists, including Frieder Nake, Vera Molnár, Refik Anadol, Ryoji Ikeda, and Saudi talents like Lulwah Alhomoud and Muhannad Shono.
3. Emerging New Media Artists Programme
In collaboration with Le Fresnoy – Studio National des Arts Contemporains (France), this year-long initiative offers early-career artists mentorship, funding, and access to advanced equipment, fostering innovation in multidisciplinary art practices.
4. Mazra’ah Media Arts Residency
- Dates: February–April 2025
This residency invites established artists and scholars to explore the intersection of nature, technology, and society. Reflecting its name—“farm” in Arabic—it ties artistic exploration to nearby agricultural landscapes.
Vision and Impact
Haytham Nawar, DAF’s Director, emphasizes the institution’s role as a global platform for MENA artists to contribute to conversations at the intersection of art, science, and technology.
DAF will serve as a hub for critical engagement and innovation.
– he noted.
DAF is a testament to our nation’s ambitious cultural mandate, enriching our landscape and empowering the next generation of artists and scholars.
– Mona Khazindar, advisor to the Saudi Ministry of Culture, highlights DAF’s role in fulfilling Saudi Arabia’s cultural ambitions.
With its state-of-the-art facilities, innovative programming, and commitment to fostering creative talent, Diriyah Art Futures is set to transform the cultural fabric of Saudi Arabia and beyond.