RIYADH: The Ministry of Culture is preparing to organize the exhibition “In a New Light,” showcasing contemporary photography from Saudi Arabia as part of cultural events at the Abbazia building in Venice, Italy.

The exhibition will run from Sept. 12 to Oct. 10, and will feature works shortlisted for the 2025 Kingdom Photography Award.

The award, launched in 2022, is an annual initiative designed to empower professional photographers and support emerging talent in the field of photography.

Visual Arts Commission CEO Dina Amin said that holding the exhibition in Venice marks a significant step that reflects the continuous development and vibrant creativity of the photography sector in the Kingdom.

She added that the exhibition highlights the innovative contributions of Saudi photographers, whose works express national identity through fresh perspectives that engage international audiences.

Through the Kingdom Photography Award, the Visual Arts Commission aims to support creatives in photography, enhance the sustainability of the local photographic scene by fostering cultural exchange, enrich visual knowledge and build a photographic archive that documents the Kingdom’s features, heritage and landscapes through artistic lenses, embodying the national visual identity.

The award also aims to foster a culture of innovation in photography, encouraging participants to explore new approaches that transcend traditional practices while providing a platform for emerging talents to showcase their works to a global audience.

The 2025 edition of the award has attracted numerous submissions from Saudi and international photographers.