Saudi Minister of Culture Concludes Official Visit to Italy
In a whirlwind tour of Italy, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Saudi minister of culture and governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla, wrapped up his official visit with a bang.
Engaging in high-level discussions with key Italian cultural figures, the prince aimed to solidify cooperation and nurture cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Meeting with his Italian counterpart, Minister of Culture Gennaro Sangiuliano, the Saudi minister explored strategies to bolster collaboration and deepen cultural ties.
Both leaders lauded significant cultural initiatives and projects that unfolded in 2023, spanning heritage preservation, fashion, music, museum exhibitions, architectural innovation, design, and visual arts.
At the heart of his visit was a stop at the Saudi Pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale, located at the Arsenale center, where Prince Badr marveled at Manal AlDowayan’s powerful exhibition “Shifting Sands: A Battle Song.”
AlDowayan’s work sheds light on the evolving role of Saudi women in the public sphere, showcasing their efforts to redefine physical spaces and reshape narratives surrounding them.
The prince also immersed himself in the “Journeys in Land Art: Towards Wadi AlFann, AlUla” exhibition, offering a glimpse into the culturally and historically rich region of AlUla in the Kingdom.
Featuring works by AlDowayan alongside pieces by Agnes Denis, Michael Heizer, Ahmed Mater, and James Turrell, the exhibition includes captivating photographs and video presentations.
Running until April 30, the exhibition will host engaging discussion panels on topics such as land art, art in public spaces, visitor experiences, museum curation, and the intersection of art and archaeology, providing a diverse range of perspectives for attendees.