RIYADH: Some of the Kingdom’s leading artists — including Ahmed Mater, Moath Alofi, and Rashed AlShashai — are opening their warehouse-sized doors during the inaugural Art Week Riyadh at JAX District, which runs until April 13.
It is always a treat to walk into active art studios as it is the most intimate way to immerse yourself in an artist’s world. You see half-baked ideas, abandoned projects, rough drafts, and final pieces, all in one space. For art lovers it offers a rare glimpse into the process and world-building of the artist.
Visitors were invited to sketch, daydream, or take a closer look at the materials on hand. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
On the day of our visit interested onlookers from all walks of life wandered in, soaking in the sights, sounds, and textures all around. Some artists offered bottled water and places to sit. Visitors were invited to sketch, daydream, or take a closer look at the materials on hand. It was fun and engaging.
Many of the artists dropped into their studios as people trickled — or stormed — in, engaging with those eager to ask questions, share comments, or snap selfies.
Artists at JAX often wander into other studios between projects, collaborating or simply exchanging ideas. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
Artists at JAX often wander into other studios between projects, collaborating or simply exchanging ideas. That organic interaction supports a thriving creative ecosystem and fosters much-needed artist-to-artist connection.
JAX is a walkable district, but golf cart buggies are also available to shuttle visitors between studios if they would rather ride and enjoy the warm breeze.
While some studios are adjacent and others are shared, this invitation from the Art Week Riyadh team — spearheaded by the Visual Arts Commission — offers a vibrant glimpse into the richness of the evolving Saudi art scene.
