Arab sculptors showcase contemporary works at International Symposium in Saudi
Ten artists create large-scale stone pieces to enhance public spaces and highlight Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape
MAKKAH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — The Al-Namas International Sculpture Symposium concluded recently in the Asir region, Saudi Arabia, bringing together ten Arab sculptors under the theme “Linear Rhythms” to craft works that reflect the area’s striking natural scenery and cultural heritage.
Organized by Al-Namas municipality with artistic direction from Saudi sculptor Mohammed Al-Thaqafi.
The event underscored the governorate’s ambition to strengthen its visual identity and integrate contemporary art into public spaces.
The theme drew inspiration from Al-Namas’s dramatic topography, where mountain ridges and cloud lines converge into sweeping horizons.
Artists worked with locally sourced stone to produce large-scale sculptures now installed in gardens and open areas, blending modern creativity with Saudi traditions.
The symposium featured leading artists from across the Arab world. Saudi Arabia was represented by Mohammed Al-Thaqafi, Ali Al-Tokhais, and Ebtesam Saleh.
They were joined by Ikram Kabbaj of Morocco, Azza Al-Qubaisi of the UAE, Mohammed Al-Ateeq of Qatar, Yousuf Al-Rawahi of Oman, Khalid Abdullah of Sudan, Mohammed Bou Aziz of Tunisia, and Omar Toussoun of Egypt.
Al-Thaqafi described the initiative as a platform to “advance visual literacy, enrich public spaces, and celebrate identity through sculpture,” noting its growing scope and the potential for other Saudi cities to adopt similar projects.
Participants praised both the cultural exchange and Al-Namas’s natural environment. Egyptian sculptor Omar Toussoun said the invitation was among the most distinguished of his career, drawing inspiration from the “mountainous terrain, valleys, and captivating landscapes” of the region.
Qatari artist Mohammed Al-Ateeq emphasized the importance of Gulf and Arab collaboration, noting that the symposium provided “ideal conditions” to bring ambitious artistic visions to life.
With its cool climate, scenic beauty, and cultural vibrancy, Al-Namas continues to position itself as a growing cultural destination where art, heritage, and nature converge.
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