RIYADH — In the heart of Diriyah, a cultural renaissance is set to unfold with the imminent opening of the Saudi Museum for Modern Art in JAX. As a pivotal step towards promoting contemporary art and empowering artists in the Kingdom, this cultural haven is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Ministry of Culture to realize the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030. Supported by the Quality of Life Program, the museum emerges as a dynamic platform dedicated to fostering the best practices and showcasing contemporary artworks. It aims to serve as a vibrant meeting point for the burgeoning contemporary art community in the Kingdom, providing a space for dialogue, expression, and creative exploration. The grand unveiling of this transformative space aligns seamlessly with the hosting of the International Biennial of Contemporary Art of the South (BIENALSUR). Having made its debut last July in Buenos Aires, this global exhibition, themed "Imagine Fantasy, Dreams and Utopia," features over 400 artists from 27 nationalities, including ten artists from the Kingdom. The exhibition promises to transport visitors on a journey between reality and myth, challenging perceptions of place and igniting the imagination. The Ministry of Culture's hosting of BIENALSUR for the third time underscores its commitment to presenting the best contemporary art practices and enriching the artistic and cultural landscape in Saudi Arabia. It echoes the Ministry's broader mission to facilitate international cultural exchange, a strategic objective in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. The inauguration of the Saudi Museum for Modern Art in JAX marks a preliminary stride towards the establishment of a monumental cultural institution in Diriyah. In collaboration with the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, the Ministry of Culture envisions the creation of the Kingdom's first museum of modern art —a sprawling space destined to be one of the largest in terms of both area and art collections on display. The forthcoming museum in Diriyah will complement its counterpart in JAX by featuring a permanent art collection. Meanwhile, the JAX museum will play a dynamic role, hosting three temporary art exhibitions annually, along with a spectrum of cultural and artistic events. Together, these twin cultural landmarks are poised to redefine the artistic landscape, providing a canvas where modern and contemporary pieces of art unfold, enriching the cultural tapestry of Saudi Arabia.
