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Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026: An Artistic Journey in Riyadh

The much-anticipated Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 is set to make its grand return to Riyadh, showcasing its seventh edition under the compelling theme "Traces of What Will Be." This year's event, organized by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, runs from January 12 to February 22, 2026, primarily along Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (also known as Tahlia Street). The event will host 25 talented artists representing 18 different countries, including local Saudi talent, to create stunning live sculptures that engage the public directly.

Theme Explored: "Traces of What Will Be"

The overarching theme of this year’s sculpture symposium, curated as "Traces of What Will Be," focuses on transformation as both a tangible process and a metaphor for urban change. It invites participating artists to reflect on how the footprints of human intervention, memory, and ingenuity can shape the future landscape of cities. The theme encourages a dialogue about the connection between art, urban environments, and the evolution of community identity.

Live Sculpture: A Unique Experience

At the heart of Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 lies the live sculpture format, offering attendees a rare opportunity to witness the entire artistic creation process. Between January 12 and February 5, visitors can observe the transformation of regional materials like granite and scrap metal into magnificent sculptures, fostering a deeper appreciation for contemporary sculptural practices. This interactive format allows attendees to connect with artists and engage with the creative process, thereby enriching their experience.

Innovative Art Practices

This year, two categories of sculpture have been introduced: granite and optional integration of stainless steel and recycled metal. This innovation emphasizes the symposium's commitment to material exploration, sustainability, and creative ingenuity. Curators Lulwah Al Homoud, Rut Blees Luxemburg, and Sarah Staton will lead the artistic exchange, focusing on public art and spatial research, while creating a vibrant platform for dialogue that merges artistic processes with forward-thinking concepts.

Heritage and Future Vision

The location of Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026, Tahlia Street, holds historical significance, being tied to Riyadh's first desalination plant. This connection provides a conceptual anchor for the theme, with its legacy of ecological innovation and transformation deeply influencing the artistic responses developed during the symposium.

Permanent Contributions to Riyadh

All artworks created during Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 will become a part of Riyadh Art's permanent collection. After the event concludes, these sculptures will be installed in key public spaces throughout the capital, contributing to Riyadh's long-term vision of integrating contemporary art into the urban landscape. Since its inception in 2019, Tuwaiq Sculpture has welcomed over 150 artists from across the globe, establishing itself as a cornerstone of Riyadh's evolving cultural scene and a crucial platform for bridging local and international artistic practices.

For further information on public exhibitions of the completed artworks, keep an eye on upcoming announcements. Additional details can be found at Riyadh Art.

Conclusion

In summary, Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 is not just an artistic event; it represents a community-driven initiative that merges creativity, sustainability, and cultural dialogue. As Riyadh continues to cultivate its artistic landscape, events like these play a crucial role in fostering a vibrant public art scene and encouraging collaboration among local and global artists. Since the event's launch, it has constantly aimed to enrich the cultural fabric of Saudi Arabia, making it a must-visit experience for art enthusiasts.

To learn more about Riyadh Art and Tuwaiq Sculpture, visit their official website or follow them on social media platforms.