See & Do

Diriyah Art Futures Announces "Maknana: An Archaeology of New Media Art in the Arab World" Exhibition

Over 40 Arab artists converge in Riyadh for this groundbreaking exhibition at Diriyah Art Futures, the exhibition will trace the evolution of digital expression and take place from April 21 to July 19, 2025

BY /
14 April 25
Diriyah Art Futures Announces "Maknana: An Archaeology of New Media Art in the Arab World" Exhibition

Diriyah Art Futures (DAF), the premier New Media Arts hub in the MENA region, today announced its second major exhibition titled "Maknana: An Archaeology of New Media Art in the Arab World." Co-curated by artists and curators Haytham Nawar and Ala Younis, the newly announced exhibition will run from April 21 to July 19, 2025, at DAF in Diriyah, Riyadh.

"Maknana: An Archaeology of New Media Art in the Arab World" brings together the works of over 40 Arab artists from across the MENA region. The exhibition explores regional dialogues in digital expression and the evolution of New Media Art within the Arab world. It features pioneering voices from the region who have embraced and redefined technology as a medium for creative expression.

Diriyah Art Futures Exhibition Maknana

The exhibition highlights notable Saudi artists such as Ahmed Mater, Muhannad Shono, and ARC (Abdullah Rashed), whose practices reflect the Kingdom's dynamic and evolving relationship with New Media. They are joined by influential artists from across the region, including VJ Um Amel (Laila Shereen Sakr, Egypt), Emily Jacir (Palestine), Akram Zaatari (Lebanon), Sophia Al-Maria (Qatar/USA), Raed Yassin (Lebanon), and Monira Al Qadiri (Kuwait/Senegal), among others.

"Maknana," which translates to "our place" or "our spaces" in Arabic, aims to delve into the historical trajectories and contemporary practices of New Media Art in the Arab world, showcasing the diverse and innovative ways artists are engaging with technology to tell their stories and explore their identities.

Exhibition Details:

This groundbreaking exhibition promises to be a significant exploration of the rich and evolving landscape of New Media Art in the Arab world, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the creative visions of leading artists in the region.

Maknana: An Archaeology of New Media Art in the Arab World
Dates:
April 21 – July 19, 2025
Location: Diriyah Art Futures, Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah


Diriyah Art Futures, from April 21 - July 19, 2025
Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah, Riyadh 13712
@dafmoc
daf.moc.gov.sa