#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Public Art #Tuwaiq Sculpture #Riyadh Art

Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026: A Vision of Urban Art

The Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 is making a grand return to Riyadh, celebrating its seventh edition from January 12 to February 22, 2026. Organized by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City through Riyadh Art, this annual international sculpture symposium promises to offer a unique blend of artistic expression and public engagement. Under the thematic banner of "Traces of What Will Be," this year's event invites 25 exceptional artists from 18 countries, including Saudi Arabia, to create new large-scale public artworks right before the eyes of onlookers.

The Artistic Encounter

At the heart of Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 lies an innovative live sculpting experience, where visitors can observe the transformation of raw materials into finished artworks. From January 12 until February 5, 2026, artists will use locally sourced granite and reclaimed metal to shape their creations. This open format offers an incredible opportunity for participants to engage in the artistic process, witnessing firsthand how each piece evolves and breathes life as it is sculpted from stone and metal.

This edition emphasizes two sculptural categories: granite with optional stainless steel integration and reclaimed metal working. By doing so, the symposium underlines its commitment to exploring material, craftsmanship, and sustainability within the contemporary art landscape. The choice of materials not only reflects an artistic intent but also aligns with broader ecological considerations, promoting a conversation around durability and environmental responsibility in art.

Curatorial Insights and Inspirations

The curatorial direction for this iteration is handled by Lulwah Al Homoud, Rut Blees Luxemburg, and Sarah Staton—three artists whose work spans various domains such as public art, spatial exploration, and contemporary visual culture. Their combined vision creates a fertile ground for artistic exchange, allowing themes of process, place, and future-oriented thinking to converge.

Situated on Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street—commonly referred to as Tahlia Street—the symposium's location serves as a historical anchor. This street has ties to Riyadh’s initial desalination plant and symbolizes a legacy of environmental innovation. Consequently, the selected site inspires artists to reflect on how human initiative and memory shape our urban environments moving forward.

Fostering a Lasting Legacy in Public Art

Once the symposium concludes, all artworks produced will be integrated into the Riyadh Art permanent collection. The sculptures will undergo installation in prominent public spaces across the capital, contributing significantly to Riyadh Art’s long-term vision of seamlessly incorporating contemporary art into the urban landscape. Since its inception in 2019, Tuwaiq Sculpture has welcomed over 150 international artists, actively enhancing Riyadh's cultural fabric while fostering dialogue between local and global artistic practices.

A Cultural Platform for the Future

Through its interactive program of workshops, school visits, and discussions, Tuwaiq Sculpture not only nurtures creativity but also engages diverse communities, reinforcing cultural exchange. The symposium culminates in a public exhibition of completed works, which enrich the Riyadh Art collection, transforming them into lasting features of the city's aesthetic and cultural identity.

In summary, Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 stands as a hallmark of what contemporary art can contribute to a vibrant and inclusive urban society, promoting civic pride and an enriched experience for both residents and visitors alike. For more updates regarding the public exhibition of the finished artworks, stay tuned to Riyadh Art’s official communications.