Saudi’s Riyadh expands public art across streets and transit hubs
Riyadh Art is bringing Saudi and international artworks into everyday public spaces, turning capital into open-air gallery
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — Riyadh is expanding its public art landscape by placing permanent installations across metro stations, business districts, pedestrian bridges and public spaces, making contemporary art increasingly accessible outside traditional museums and galleries.
According to Arab News, the initiative is led by Riyadh Art, a government-backed cultural program launched in 2019 to strengthen the capital’s creative sector and integrate visual art into the city’s everyday environment.
Riyadh Art’s permanent collection includes 75 works positioned throughout the capital, with installations located in transit stations, parks, bridges, plazas and other heavily used public areas.
Among the collection is Saudi artist Zaman Jassim’s “When the Moon Was Full,” installed at Qasr Al-Hukm Metro Station. The 2021 work combines illuminated discs, sound, visual elements and poetry to explore memory, spirituality and cultural identity.
The King Abdullah Financial District has also become an important center for the city’s public art program, with works by Saudi and international artists displayed throughout its open spaces.
One prominent installation is “Janey Waney,” a 1969 steel sculpture by American artist Alexander Calder. Its bright red, blue and yellow forms use abstract shapes and spatial arrangements to create a visual experience for people moving through the financial district.
The district also features “The Family Tree” by Indian artist Subodh Gupta, whose work is displayed outdoors against the modern architecture of KAFD.
The Diplomatic Quarter represents another major location for Riyadh Art installations. The area, which includes diplomatic missions, residential communities and restaurants, is home to Jeff Koons’ “Diamond (Red)” outside the Cultural Palace.
The large-scale sculpture depicts a gemstone with a highly reflective surface and vivid red finish, creating a prominent landmark within the district.
Public art has also been introduced into busy transportation corridors. Italian artist Angelo Bonello’s “Running Beyond” stretches across a pedestrian bridge at the intersection of King Abdulaziz Road and Hisham bin Abdulmalik Road.
The light installation uses a series of illuminated human figures arranged to create the impression of a runner moving across the bridge, offering a striking sight to commuters passing underneath.
The distribution of artworks across different parts of Riyadh reflects the broader objective of making cultural experiences part of ordinary urban life.
By placing works in commercial centers, residential areas and transportation routes, Riyadh Art is allowing residents and visitors to encounter local and international artists without needing to visit a conventional gallery or purchase admission.
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