ALULA, Saudi Arabia, Dec. 15, 2023 — In a groundbreaking fusion of contemporary art and ancient landscapes, Desert X AlUla is set to captivate the world once again with its third edition, scheduled from February 9 to March 23, 2024. Renowned as a recurring international open-air art exhibition, Desert X AlUla transforms the majestic AlUla region in northwest Saudi Arabia into a vibrant canvas for visionary contemporary artworks.
Under the theme of 'In the Presence of Absence,' the 2024 edition challenges artists to explore the unseen and inexpressible aspects of the desert. Organized as a highlight of the AlUla Arts Festival, the exhibition invites visitors to experience the rich cultural heritage of the region, emphasizing cross-cultural exchange and dialogue.
Artistic directors Raneem Farsi and Neville Wakefield will lead the event, curated by Maya El Khalil and Marcello Dantas. El Khalil, a renowned art advisor, brings over 14 years of experience with a focus on the MENA region. Dantas, an award-winning curator, is known for innovative interdisciplinary practices linking science, history, and technology to create engaging exhibitions.
The exhibition locations include the Wadi AlFann desert, Harrat Uwayrid, and AlManshiyah Railway Station, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to wander through and experience the diverse landscapes interwoven with contemporary artworks.
Desert X AlUla has played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape, leading to the development of Wadi AlFann, a 65 square kilometer site set to become a global destination for monumental site-specific, permanent land art, opening in 2026. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the Royal Commission for AlUla's Cultural Manifesto, contributing to the long-term vision for art in the landscape.
Nora Aldabal, Executive Director of Arts and Creative Industries at RCU, expressed excitement about curators Maya and Marcello, stating that they understand AlUla's rich heritage and the landscapes' complexity. The selected artists will explore themes of the unseen, challenging human-centric perspectives in an awe-inspiring landscape.
The AlUla Arts Festival, running from February 9 to March 2, 2024, will showcase "More than meets the Eye," an exhibition of modern and contemporary works by Saudi artists. Additionally, Wadi AlFann commissioned artist Manal AlDowayan's work will be presented in Aljadidah Arts District, contributing to a vibrant celebration of contemporary visual and public art.
Desert X AlUla 2024 promises to continue its legacy of fostering cultural exchange and providing a platform for artists to engage with the imperceptible forces and atmospheres that shape the landscape, creating a transformative and enriching experience for both local and international audiences.
