At the second edition of Desert X AlUla (11 February – 30 March), a serene desert oasis forms the backdrop for fascinating artistic explorations into the rich history, vibrant culture and thriving natural ecosystem of an ancient land. This free-for-all, recurring, site-responsive art exhibition positions 15 visionary outdoor artworks by Saudi and international artists amidst the extraordinary desert landscape of AlUla, Saudi Arabia. This year, the artists’ creations build on the ideas of the mirage and oasis, inspired by the theme Sarab, which translates to ‘mirage’. Amidst towering sandstone mountains and a lush oasis valley, this exhibition acts as a living museum.
Abdullah AlOthman: Geography of Hope
Located 1,100 km from Riyadh in North-West Saudi Arabia, AlUla has been a home and a passageway for civilisations spanning thousands of years. For the residents of this region, art was an expression of their thoughts, beliefs and experiences, as observed in the ancient rock art and inscriptions found across the area. The oasis, which houses several historical and archaeological sites including Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, is the perfect example of the extraordinary natural and human heritage; rooted in history but continuously evolving. Each artwork of this exhibition is an exploration of this unique landscape and its storied past.
Dana Awartani: Where the Dwellers Lay
Desert X, produced by The Desert Biennial, presents public exhibitions of international contemporary art that activate desert locations through site-specific installations by acclaimed international artists, with the aim to underline the importance of art. Desert X AlUla’s public programme and community engagement initiatives promote the creative industries sector through the transformational power of the arts, and re-establish AlUla as a cultural centre that fosters the exchange of ideas, trade and practises. A visit to this scenic landscape assures marvellous sights and unique experiences that truly allow guests to appreciate the local culture and history, alongside modern artistic masterpieces.
Jim Denevan: Angle of Repose
The exhibition uses artists as guides and thought leaders in the journey of navigating an ancient landscape through art and ideas. The artists add layers of critical thought to their spectacular artworks, to communicate directly with local communities. The installations interact with the location’s geography and topography to contextualise the art, and make it easier for visitors to understand its relevance. By elaborating on the theme of illusion, embracing the boundless beauty of nature, and altering the visitor’s understanding of space, time and perception, Desert X AlUla allows people from within the community and outside to rethink the past and relearn the future.
Alicja Kwade: In Blur
To engage the community of artists and art enthusiasts, Desert X AlUla offers workshops that inspire art teachers to be advocates for the importance of contemporary art, and an art mediator training programme for developing the skills and capacity required to participate in a blossoming cultural economy. For the general public, an array of entertainment options are available:
Highlights Tours: Twice a day, trained guides will conduct tours that provide an overview of the exhibition and insights into the artists and their creations, while exploring the desert’s magnificent landscapes.
Family Activities: Every weekend, family-friendly ‘Art Breaks’ will be facilitated through a handbook that allows people to engage with the artworks, as well as props and tools that creatively explore the themes that inspire these installations.
Shezad Dawood: Coral Alchemy | (Dipsastrea Speciosa)
Film Screening: The documentary and filmic catalogue, Desert X 2021, will be screened and accompanied by a talk, to explain the recent Desert X exhibition at the Coachella Valley to global audiences and provide context to the Desert X AlUla collaboration.
Contemporary Dance: Newly commissioned performances that respond to the beauty and distinctiveness of AlUla will provide an immersive experience, allowing audiences to tap into the vibrations of ancient spirituality running through the landscape.
Music: A variety of live performances on weekends will feature an exciting line-up of musicians from Saudi Arabia and the wider region, making the site a spot for fun and irreverence, as well as artistic contemplation.
Sustainable Art Installation Workshops: AlUla’s pioneering sustainable development technologies and models have placed it on the path to becoming a future leader in environmental design within the art world. These expert-led workshops will encourage participants to consider solar energy as a media for artworks.
Zeinab Alashemi: Camouflage 2.0
Arts of the Desert Talks Demonstration: Artist Desmond Lazaro will share guidance on painting techniques and give talks elaborating on his unique style. Visitors can witness as he works on his paintings of the desert landscape in the open air.
Rock Art Tours: The rock art and carved inscriptions at AlUla are remnants of its astonishing history. The canyon that serves as the location for Desert X AlUla is home to ancient rock art from Lihyanite civilisations. To highlight this aspect of the region, specialists will lead guided rock art tours and trails.
Treks: Finally, visitors will have the option to venture on adventurous treks in the desert environment, observe awe-inspiring views, and approach the exhibition from different routes to see how art and nature interact in perfect harmony from each perspective.
Claudia Comte: Dark Suns, Bright Waves
Placing the landscape at its centre and creating opportunities for artists and audiences to have meditative and riveting experiences, Desert X AlUla is the ideal escape for people who are familiar with the region, and the perfect introduction for new explorers. Plan your trip to this stunning locale while the exhibition lasts – till 30 March 2022. Visit www.livingmuseum.com for more information.
