Manal AlDowayan, a distinguished name in the realm of Saudi contemporary art, is poised to represent her nation at the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia in 2024. Her multifaceted artistic journey, spanning over two decades, is a blend of photography, sound, sculpture, and participatory practice. AlDowayan’s art delves into the complexities of traditions, collective memories, and the nuanced representation of women, making her one of Saudi Arabia’s most significant contemporary artists. As she prepares for her upcoming exhibition in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, in February 2024, there’s a palpable excitement for her participatory work that captures the narratives of local communities. This exhibition sets the stage for her era-defining commission for Wadi AlFann, due for completion in 2026.
Wadi AlFann, or ‘Valley of the Arts’, is a groundbreaking project transforming 65 square kilometers of the AlUla desert into a land art destination. Here, AlDowayan’s “Oasis of Stories,” an architectonic sculpture inspired by the mud walls of AlUla’s Old Town, will come to life, inscribed with personal histories from AlUla communities. AlDowayan’s practice, a testament to her role as a keen observer of Saudi Arabia’s cultural transformation, tackles themes of social injustice, collective memory, and women’s roles and representation. Her notable participatory installations, such as “Suspended Together” (2011) and “Esmi-My Name” (2021), reflect her commitment to involving and resonating with her audience. Her recent work at the Guggenheim in New York, “From Shattered Ruins, New Life Shall Bloom” (2023), symbolized the shattering of oppressive narratives and the emergence of new perspectives.
As we engage in a conversation with Manal AlDowayan, we look forward to uncovering the depths of her artistic vision and the impact of her work in shaping contemporary art discourse.
Source: Cosmo Politian
