Riyadh Exhibition Showcases Saudi Heritage Through Art and Culture

In a vibrant celebration of culture and heritage, the Naila Gallery in Riyadh is hosting an exhibition that honors the rich history of Saudi Arabia. This event coincides with the 94th Saudi National Day, inviting visitors to embark on a visual and sensory journey that connects the past, present, and future of the Kingdom. The exhibition, which runs until October 5, showcases a diverse array of artworks from both Saudi and international artists, highlighting not only the artistic evolution within Saudi Arabia but also its growing influence on the global stage.

As guests enter the gallery, they are greeted by an atmosphere that seamlessly blends colors with historical narratives. Each artwork on display tells a unique story, reflecting themes of resilience, nostalgia, unity, and pride—emotions that resonate deeply with the national identity of Saudi Arabia. The gallery is adorned with paintings and sculptures that encapsulate the essence of Saudi heritage, inviting visitors to engage with the cultural tapestry of the Kingdom.

Ameera Al-Zaben, the gallery manager, emphasizes the significance of this exhibition, stating, "This is more than an art display — it is a celebration of the nation’s soul. Every piece in this exhibition reflects the landscapes, traditions, and dreams that make Saudi Arabia what it is today. Art becomes a bridge connecting hearts, transcending borders and fostering unity through shared history." This sentiment is palpable as visitors navigate through the gallery, becoming active participants in a journey filled with reflection and pride for their homeland.

Among the standout pieces is Jackie Leger’s screen print titled "King with Philby — Gold Sandstorm," which beautifully illustrates the intersection of heritage and modern artistic innovation. Leger, who has been documenting Saudi Arabia since 1999, shares her journey of capturing the Kingdom's essence through photography. She notes, "In the beginning, I was photographing and documenting mostly scenes going to the souq, finding joy, finding imagery... then I started traveling to all the sites of battles and other historical notes that might be interesting for us... and that’s where it all started." Her work draws inspiration from early explorers and photographers, including Captain William Henry Irvine Shakespear, whose iconic images of King Abdulaziz remain significant symbols of Saudi history.

The exhibition also features various Saudi artists who contribute to the cultural dialogue through their unique perspectives. From Abdullah Al-Almaai’s vibrant color palettes that depict the beauty of Saudi landscapes to Alia Al-Harbi’s intricate designs that explore the balance between modernity and tradition, these artists play a crucial role in narrating the Kingdom’s story. International artists, such as Belgian painter Eva Claessens and Indian artist Vinny Venugopal, further enrich the exhibition by providing a global viewpoint on Saudi culture, emphasizing the Kingdom’s expanding presence in the international art scene.

In addition to visual art, the exhibition introduces a culinary innovation: jareesh chocolate, created by renowned Middle Eastern food artist Omar Sartawi. This unique dish combines jareesh, a traditional Saudi ingredient made from cracked wheat, with white chocolate, showcasing a modern twist on a classic recipe. Sartawi explains, "Jareesh is kind of a 2,000-year-old ingredient, so how do you turn it into something modern? It’s mild and mellow, and creating the perfect balance with chocolate was a challenge. But this creation allows people to take a piece of Saudi heritage with them anywhere in the world — it’s a cultural product, a celebration of who we are."

Another highlight of the exhibition is the launch of the cookbook "Cooking Heritage: Saudi Arabia," which delves into the Kingdom’s culture through its culinary traditions. Co-author Jacquline Jackman shares, "The idea behind participating in this exhibition at Naila Gallery is to celebrate Saudi National Day by honoring Saudi cuisine as an integral part of that celebration. This cookbook is a testament to the power of food in uniting people, and it allows readers to take home a piece of Saudi culture to cherish and share."

The Naila Gallery’s exhibition is not just an artistic showcase; it is a heartfelt tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia. By blending art, history, and culinary traditions, the exhibition invites everyone to appreciate the beauty and depth of Saudi culture. As visitors leave, they carry with them not only memories of the artworks but also a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of this vibrant nation.