Misk Art Week 2023 presents six days of immersive experiences, inviting diverse audiences to explore, create, and engage with the creative spirit of Saudi Arabia. This annual event serves as a hub for thought leaders, art enthusiasts, and the broader community, facilitating a deep dive into the local multidisciplinary arts sector. From exhibitions and dialogues to educational offerings, performances, marketplaces, and an art book fair, Misk Art Week offers a comprehensive platform that propels the creative community forward. Also, central to the Misk Art Week experience is the unveiling of artworks by the recipient of the prestigious Misk Art Grant.
The Creative Forum stands out as a key component, facilitating exchanges within the creative community. Attendees can explore the intersection of heritage and reinvention. Discussions are led by esteemed panellists, including MC Mohammad Almousa, Reem Alsultan, Dr Jasser Alharbash, Abdullah Alothman, Mohammad Alfaraj, Myrna Ayad, Abeer Seikaly, Nawal Alkhalawi, Ibrahim Alkheirallah, Basma Alshathry, Maya Elkhalil, Nawaf Alharbi, Nawaf Alnassar, Dr Rana Alkaldi, Dr Saleh Alhathloul, Dr Sumayah Alsolaiman, Nermeen Abu Dail, Nisreen Abu Dail, Dr Laila Albassam, Rae Joseph, Alia bint Sultan and Tara Aldughaither. The panellists delve into the influence of tradition on contemporary art and culture. This two-day event advances awareness of different facets of the art market encouraging participants to reflect on remaining rooted while continually moving forward.
In addition to the Creative Forum, exclusive mentorship sessions take place throughout the fair with leading experts, including Abdulaziz Aljafen, Hamza Seirafi, Maya El Khalil, Lujain Mirza, and Nuha Alsharif, providing participants with an opportunity to gain insights directly from seasoned professionals.
Misk Art Week presents four exhibitions including: “Echoing the Land”, “Misk Art Grant 2023: Tracing the Absent”, “Mirqab Exhibition” and “Masaha Residency Program Showcase”. Guided group tours of the exhibitions are held daily, allowing participants to explore the artworks at their own pace. Additionally, educational programs offer exclusive learning opportunities, with registration for workshops taking place in person.
The Art & Design Market serves as a platform for the creative community to connect, showcase, and sell their works. Creatives apply for a free booth, positioning themselves in a marketplace that reflects vibrant talents, celebrates culture, and creates professional development opportunities for cultural innovators and future leaders.
The Art Book Fair adds another layer to Misk Art Week, featuring prominent publishers such as Architecture and Design Commission, Canvas, Dar Dakkah, Kaph Books, and others.
About Misk Art
Misk Art Institute, a non-profit cultural arts organisation founded in December 2017 as a subsidiary of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation “Misk,” is dedicated to enhancing the dynamic creative community. Their primary goal is to open doors to opportunities and ensure that the arts are accessible to everyone.
Their mission revolves around empowering artists through a cohesive ecosystem of support, expertise, and education. Through the provision of innovative art programs, they strive to elevate artistic expression and cultivate a broader appreciation for the arts. At the core of Misk Art Institute’s vision is the belief that fostering creativity should be inclusive and transformative for individuals within the artistic community.
Location: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall, KSA
Dates: 6 – 10 December, 2023