A new collection of life-sized animal sculptures has emerged within Riyadh's Al-Nafal Park, a collaboration between Riyadh Art and celebrated Italian sculptor Davide Rivalta, who is known for dynamic representations of the animal kingdom.

The installation, titled "Echoes of Land," features robust figures of a cheetah, lion, lioness, and buffalo, each one a nod to the rich wildlife heritage that once thrived in the Arabian Peninsula. These sculptures are not only beautiful, but also encourage onlookers to consider the relationship between our cultural heritage and the natural environment.

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Courtesy SPA

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Omar Al-Braik, the senior director of public art at the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, reflects on the installation as a collaboration that elevates the city’s public spaces and ignites meaningful conversations. "Art is not merely an aesthetic element; it is a powerful force capable of reshaping public spaces, sparking conversations, and strengthening the profound connection between individuals and their surroundings in unexpected ways," he said.

The choice of animals, particularly the cheetah, highlights ongoing conservation efforts and the delicate balance necessary between human development and nature preservation. These sculptures serve as both a tribute and a reminder of the environmental stakes at play.

Davide Rivalta, born in 1974, has made a significant mark on the global art scene with his sculptures, celebrated for their textured, almost raw surfaces that bring the animal forms to life. Riyadh’s installation marks his first involvement with the Riyadh Art public program, which since its inception in 2019 has introduced over 550 public works, engaged 500 local and international artists, and hosted 6,500 community engagement activities, attracting millions of visitors.

"By hosting Rivalta's works in Riyadh, we continue to expand the city's artistic landscape, open new avenues for creativity, and ensure that diverse artistic visions reach all segments of the community," AlBraik said.

The program aspires to expand its collection to more than 1,000 works of art, further evolving the city's cultural identity.

Al Nafal Park, Riyadh 12521

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