In a move that reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading global destination for creativity and innovation, the Diriyah Center for Future Arts , the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa specializing in new media arts, inaugurated its fourth major exhibition, titled “From Earth: From Terrestrial Technologies to Computational Biology.” The opening ceremony, held last night at the center’s headquarters in historic Diriyah, was attended by prominent cultural leaders, leading artists, and representatives from local and international media outlets.
A beacon of digital arts in the heart of history
This exhibition underscores the pivotal role of Diriyah, not only as a historically significant landmark encompassing the UNESCO World Heritage-listed At-Turaif district, but also as a launchpad into the future. The center's mission aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 , which aims to develop the cultural sector and support contemporary arts. The center represents a unique meeting point between the rich heritage of the past and the latest advancements in digital technology and dynamic arts.
Details and themes of the "From the Earth" exhibition
The exhibition, curated by Irene Papadimitriou, runs until May 16, 2026, offering an extended and interactive art experience. Featuring the creative works of over 30 artists from the Kingdom, the region, and the world, the event explores the complex relationship between humanity and nature in the age of digital dominance.
The exhibition is divided into four main themes that form its philosophical and artistic structure:
- Computer mythical creatures: Exploring the frontier between biology and artificial intelligence.
- Ground circuits: Understanding the interrelationship between technological systems and the natural environment.
- Extraction codes: A critique of resource-draining processes for technology service.
- Capture networks: Analyzing how data is captured and its impact on living organisms.
Opening events and cultural dialogue
The opening ceremony included a special guided tour, followed by a unique performance titled “One Drop Through a Thousand Years,” which used visual and auditory media to express the fragility of ecosystems. A panel discussion titled “Composite Ecology” also took place, exploring the environmental responsibility of art and technology, and how technology can be transformed from a tool for controlling nature into a means of understanding and protecting it.
A future vision for museums in the Kingdom
Commenting on the event, Ibrahim Al-Sanousi, Acting CEO of the Museums Authority, affirmed the Authority's commitment to developing cultural institutions that address pressing global issues. He noted that the exhibition aims to remind the public that the virtual digital world is fundamentally based on "tangible, earthly resources" such as rare earth elements and energy, thus necessitating a rethinking of technological sustainability.
It is worth mentioning that the exhibition will be accompanied by a full public program that includes practical workshops, discussion sessions, and advanced lessons (Masterclasses), making it a continuous educational and training platform that contributes to building a creative society aware of current challenges.
