#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Tuwaiq Sculpture #Riyadh Art

Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026: A Celebration of Urban Transformation

The Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 is set to reclaim the vibrant streets of Riyadh this January, marking its seventh annual edition under the inspiring theme, “Huellas de lo que será,” which translates to “Traces of What Will Be.” Organized by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City through Riyadh Art, this year’s symposium will take place from January 12 to February 22, 2026, on the iconic Muhammad bin Abdulaziz Street, commonly known as Tahlia Street.

A Unique Artistic Experience

This remarkable event will gather 25 artists from 18 different countries, including skilled craftsmen from Saudi Arabia. Each artist will engage in an open live sculpting process, fostering a rare opportunity for the public to witness the creative journey as massive public art installations come to life. For almost a month, from January 12 to February 5, visitors will experience firsthand how locally sourced granite and reclaimed metals are transformed into stunning sculptures.

The live sculpting format enhances public interaction, allowing attendees to engage with contemporary sculptural practices while observing the metamorphosis of raw materials into enduring artworks. This year's symposium features sculptures that combine granite with optional integrations of stainless steel and reclaimed metals, reflecting a commitment to material exploration and sustainability.

Curatorial Insights and Artistic Exchange

Under the direction of curators Lulwah Al Homoud, Rut Blees Luxemburg, and Sarah Staton, Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 is poised to be a hub of artistic exchange. These curators bring diverse practices encompassing public art, spatial research, and contemporary visual culture to the event. Together, they will define the symposium as a space for collaborative dialogue, emphasizing not only the locale but also the thought-provoking ideas surrounding urban transformation.

The historical significance of Tahlia Street, notably associated with Riyadh's first desalination plant, reinforces the theme’s conceptual framework. This legacy of human ingenuity and environmental transformation acts as a creative catalyst for the artists’ responses throughout the symposium.

An Expanding Legacy of Public Art

All sculptures produced during Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 will eventually join the permanent collection of Riyadh Art. Following the conclusion of the event, these artworks will be strategically installed in public spaces across the city, contributing to Riyadh Art’s long-term vision of integrating contemporary art into the urban landscape. Since its inception in 2019, Tuwaiq Sculpture has welcomed over 150 artists worldwide, establishing itself as a cornerstone of Riyadh's evolving cultural scene and facilitating dialogue between local and international artistic practices.

More details regarding the public exhibition of the artworks will be revealed post-symposium. For additional information, please visit Riyadh Art's official website.

About Riyadh Art

Riyadh Art is one of the four original mega-projects launched as part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. Established in 2019, it aims to transform the capital through creativity and cultural expression. By reflecting the openness and accessibility of Riyadh’s burgeoning creative landscape, Riyadh Art seeks to instill pride among residents and visitors, enhance everyday experiences, and contribute to a more beautiful city for all. Furthermore, it catalyzes economic growth within the creative sector, drawing investment and talent to the kingdom.

Whether you are an art enthusiast or a curious visitor, Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 presents a unique opportunity to engage with the future of urban art in Riyadh, blending tradition with innovation in spectacular fashion.