Lucy and Jorge Orta, known for their unique art addressing social and ecological challenges, hosted an extraordinary suhoor meal as part of the 46th activation of their ongoing participatory project, 70 x 7 The Meal. This event is a highlight of the 2024 Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale‘s Biennale Encounters program, promising a blend of art, culture, and community engagement like never before.
The setting for the suhoor meal involves a long table installation overlooking the picturesque Wadi Hanifah, a historical caravan route that was important for pilgrims in the past. The 300 guests in attendance were able to savor a delicious menu prepared by Chef Hissa Alhuthaili from Suhail Restaurant, featuring local food traditions, and also witness the artistic projects made by local Saudi artists, botanists, heritage experts, and farmers throughout the evening.
Lucy and Jorge Orta had also prepared special table artworks for this occasion, including a limited edition of Royal Limoges porcelain plates and hand-embroidered centerpieces. These artworks symbolized the natural richness of Wadi Hanifah and Riyadh’s garden city while also focusing on the challenges of urban development and the loss of traditional knowledge.
In collaboration with botanists from the National Centre for Vegetation Cover Development & Combating Desertification (NCVC), the Ortas had conducted field research on native plant species. Additionally, they explored the symbolic meaning of traditional Sadu weaving motifs, including these elements into their table artworks. The result was a visual narrative of resilience, depicted through figurative and abstract geometric shapes.
The event was made possible with the support of the National Centre for Vegetation Cover Development & Combating Desertification (NCVC), Atharna, and the dedicated team behind the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale. Special thanks were extended to the Biennale’s Artistic Director, Ute Meta Bauer, co-curators, and curatorial assistants for bringing this vision to life.
Lucy and Jorge Orta truly presented an unforgettable evening of art, culture, and culinary delights, celebrating resilience, community, and creativity at the 2024 Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale.
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About Lucy and Jorge Orta:
Lucy and Jorge Orta are internationally acclaimed artists known for their collaborative visual arts practice. They tackle pressing societal and environmental issues through their work, ranging from sculptures to performances. Their dedication to sustainability has earned them recognition, including the prestigious 2007 Green Leaf Award for Artistic Excellence by the United Nations Environment Program. The Ortas’ work is a showcase to their commitment to creating meaningful and impactful art experiences.
To find out more, visit: biennale.org
To get to know Lucy and Jorge, visit: studio-orta.com
