Bedayat: A Landmark Exhibition that Chronicles Saudi Arabia’s Artistic Evolution
January 27, 2026 – April 11, 2026
The National Museum of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh
The Visual Arts Commission is set to unveil an ambitious exhibition titled Bedayat: Beginnings of Saudi Art Movement, which promises to offer a nuanced and detailed exploration of Saudi Arabia’s modern and contemporary art scene spanning the transformative decades from the 1960s to the 1980s. Running from January 27 to April 11, 2026, at the National Museum of Saudi Arabia in the capital, Riyadh, the exhibition aims to illuminate the dynamic interactions between art and the rapidly evolving cultural, social, and economic landscapes of the Kingdom during this pivotal period.
A Historical Context of Artistic Development
At its core, Bedayat serves as a fundamental narrative that examines the emergence of artistic practice in Saudi Arabia. It reflects how early exhibitions were conceived, the evolution of art education, and the formation of a visual language deeply rooted in local contexts, all while engaging with broader modernist movements. This comprehensive project is the result of rigorous research initiated by the Visual Arts Commission, which involved more than 80 site visits, 120 in-depth artist assessments, and 50 insightful interviews. The advisory team includes prominent figures such as Abdulrahman Alsuliman, Dr. Muhammed Alrusais, and Dr. Charbel Dagher, ensuring that the exhibition integrates both academic rigor and firsthand accounts from artists and key stakeholders of the time.
Curatorial Insights and Diverse Artwork
Curated by Qaswra Hafez, this significant exhibition will showcase an array of artistic works, including paintings, sculptures, and archival materials—many of which will be displayed publicly for the first time. These selections will trace the development of a Saudi artistic identity that negotiated the country’s rich cultural heritage while simultaneously engaging in international artistic dialogues. The exhibition will also shine a light on the essential infrastructure that supported artistic endeavors, including cultural institutions, artist networks, and patronage from both public and private sectors.
Bedayat will be housed in the historic Al Murabba’a district, which is emblematic of a time when Saudi Arabia’s modern art scene transitioned from isolated ventures to a more cohesive and recognizable movement. The exhibition aims to facilitate discussions around shared references, debates, and aspirations among artists of this dynamic era.
Exploring the Exhibition's Three-Part Structure
Bedayat unfolds in three distinct yet interconnected parts:
1. The Foundation of the Modern Art Movement in Saudi Arabia: This segment delves into the early artistic milieu at the intersection of individual creativity and state support, laying the groundwork for future developments.
2. Currents of Modernity: This central section addresses the prevailing themes and artistic issues that influenced Saudi artistic production. It emphasizes how experiences of contemporary life and global art movements have been interpreted through a unique local lens.
3. Modernist Pioneers: Highlighting the contributions of four seminal figures—Mohammed Al-Saleem, Safeya Binzagr, Mounirah Mosly, and Abdulhalim Radwi—this chapter presents a closer look at the individual artists who played critical roles in shaping the movement.
Reflecting on the exhibition’s significance, Dina Amin, CEO of the Visual Arts Commission, expressed her thoughts: “We celebrate here the history of modern art in Saudi Arabia, and we are proud to foreground its rich legacy by honoring the pioneering figures and the initiatives—both public and private—that have collectively shaped our art scene. This exhibition aspires to foster an enduring continuum of appreciation for the depth and diversity of our visual arts history.”
Educational Programs and Future Impact
In addition to presenting the exhibition itself, the Visual Arts Commission plans to launch a comprehensive publication and release an original documentary film that will extend the reach of this project, providing valuable resources for both the public and professional researchers. Moreover, a series of educational programs—including talks, workshops, and masterclasses—will address pertinent themes such as the initial phases of art education, early influential teachers and institutions, and practices related to archival preservation.
Ultimately, Bedayat: Beginnings of Saudi Art Movement is more than just an exhibition; it is a cultural milestone that embodies the rich artistic spirit of Saudi Arabia. Set against the backdrop of Riyadh’s National Museum, this exhibition not only celebrates the triumphant narrative of the Kingdom’s art movement but also seeks to inspire future generations of artists and art enthusiasts.
Viewable until April 11, 2026, this exhibition is poised to become a significant point of interest for locals and tourists alike, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the artistic heritage of Saudi Arabia.
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