Noor Riyadh, the world’s largest light art festival, returns for its third edition, illuminating the city from Nov. 30 to Dec. 16. The accompanying exhibition will run from Nov. 30, 2023 to Mar. 2, 2024. This annual festival of light and art promises a remarkable cultural experience for all.

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The festival will transform Riyadh into a mesmerizing creative powerhouse, featuring over 120 artworks by more than 100 artists from across the globe. The theme for this year’s event is The Bright Side of the Desert Moon, capturing the essence of the Saudi desert’s mystical charm.

Notably, more than 35 artists are from Saudi Arabia, representing a diverse and inclusive artistic landscape. Leading the curatorial team is Jérôme Sans, who brings his experience as a co-founder of Paris’ Palais de Tokyo and a curator of major biennials worldwide. Pedro Alonzo, Alaa Tarabzouni, and Fahad Bin Naif, also curators, contribute their artistic and architectural expertise, providing unique perspectives on urbanism and the built environment. Noor Riyadh 2023 will encompass five main hubs and additional locations throughout the city, showcasing large-scale light art installations, building projections, and captivating performances. The festival extends beyond visual art, offering thought-provoking seminars, workshops, and engaging discussions, making it a comprehensive celebration of creativity.

Concurrently, the Noor Riyadh exhibition, titled Refracted Identities, Shared Futures, will be held at the JAX District, under the curation of Neville Wakefield and Maya Al Athel. This exhibit promises a deeper exploration of artistic identities and their shared future. In addition to the visual delights, Noor Riyadh 2023’s community engagement programs of 500+ events include an educational component aimed at students and teachers, while apprentices are empowered to develop their skills and contribute to organizing the event. This emphasis on inclusivity and cultural exchange reflects the festival’s commitment to enriching the Saudi local arts scene and the broader Saudi cultural economy.

Noor Riyadh is an integral part of Riyadh Art, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at turning the Saudi capital into a “gallery without walls.” Riyadh Art envisions more than 1,000 public art installations spread across the city through 10 programs and two annual events, igniting creativity and fostering a sense of civic pride.

Noor Riyadh has made a significant impact, attracting millions of visitors and earning recognition in the form of eight Guinness World Records, including the largest celebration of light art in the world.

This impressive track record underscores the festival’s growing international significance and as Noor Riyadh 2023 draws near, the anticipation for another enchanting edition of the festival is palpable. It promises to be a radiant celebration of art and culture, uniting artists with a goal to revitalize public spaces, inspire artistic communities, and significantly advance Riyadh’s cultural economy.

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