RIYADH: Paintings created by autistic children and young adults to help their development are being auctioned to help boost services in Saudi Arabia.
The Society of Autism Families held its fifth “Rishat Tayf” art exhibition in Jazan on Monday under the patronage of Prince Mohammed bin Nasser, the regional governor. It followed similar events in Riyadh, Jeddah, Alkhobar and Abha.
Each Rihat Tayf program brought together 20 children and young adults with autism with 20 artists to create paintings that help them express their feelings and thoughts.
The 100 paintings created over the five events will now be auctioned in Riyadh early next month under the patronage of Culture Minister Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan. The proceeds will help improve services for those with autism.
Prince Saud bin Abdulaziz Al-Farhan, the society’s chairman, said he was delighted with the success of Rishat Tayf.
“The idea came from our desire for our autistic children to become more integrated into society, and to enable them to showcase their talents and share their thoughts and feelings through the arts,” he said.
“My happiness today is a reflection of what I see: Positive feelings in the faces of people with autism and their families.”
Rishat Tayf was the latest art and performance initiative run by SAF. The society hosted a play in September, “Hall 4,” with a cast of people with autism.
Autism society hails success of art initiative
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Autism society hails success of art initiative
- The 100 paintings created over the five events will now be auctioned in Riyadh
Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage
- Festival now established as a premier annual event
AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.
The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency.
Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.
FASTFACT
In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.
In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.
The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.
This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship.
As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.
The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.
The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.
