What's Happening?
Palestinian Saudi artist Dana Awartani has been selected to represent Saudi Arabia at the 2026 Venice Biennale. Her pavilion will be curated by Antonia Carver, director of Art Jameel, with assistance from Hafsa Alkhudairi. Awartani is known for her material
interpretations of conflict in the Middle East, drawing on Saudi Arabia's craft and cultural legacies. Her work often involves collaboration with local artisans or displaced craftspeople. Awartani's artistic practice is informed by her training in Islamic geometry and illumination, disciplines she studied in London and Turkey. Her recent projects have addressed the destruction of heritage sites, such as her work at the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale and the Sharjah Biennial, which involved recreating stone carvings from monuments affected by the Arab Spring.
Why It's Important?
Awartani's participation in the Venice Biennale is significant as it showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East on an international stage. Her work highlights the resilience and survival of cultural traditions amidst conflict and destruction. By representing Saudi Arabia, Awartani brings attention to the kingdom's efforts to promote contemporary art and cultural initiatives. The collaboration with Art Jameel and the Visual Arts Commission underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering artistic expression and connecting regional artists with global audiences. This event also reflects the broader cultural diplomacy efforts by Middle Eastern countries to engage with the international art community.
