What's Happening?
The inaugural episode of the ArtReview Podcast features Saudi-Palestinian artist Dana Awartani, who discusses her artistic practice and themes of colonial violence, craft preservation, and cultural heritage destruction. Awartani, who lives between New York and Jeddah, incorporates traditional Islamic arts and crafts into her work. Her recent exhibition, 'Standing by the Ruins', was showcased in the UK, and she is set to represent Saudi Arabia at the 2026 Venice Biennale. The podcast, hosted by ArtReview editor-in-chief Mark Rappolt, explores Awartani's efforts to decolonize her education and develop a unique artistic language.
Why It's Important?
Dana Awartani's work and insights contribute to ongoing conversations about cultural preservation and the impact of colonialism
on art. By integrating traditional Islamic techniques into contemporary art, Awartani challenges Western dominance in the art world and highlights the importance of cultural heritage. Her participation in the Venice Biennale represents a significant opportunity for Saudi Arabia to showcase its artistic talent on a global stage. The podcast serves as a platform for discussing critical issues in the art world, encouraging dialogue about cultural identity and artistic expression.
What's Next?
As Dana Awartani prepares to represent Saudi Arabia at the 2026 Venice Biennale, her work will likely gain further international attention. The themes she explores may inspire other artists to examine their cultural heritage and address similar issues in their practice. The ArtReview Podcast will continue to feature artists and cultural figures, fostering discussions on contemporary art and its role in society. Awartani's participation in the Biennale could also lead to increased visibility for Middle Eastern artists and their contributions to the global art scene.
