Alsulaiman Group, under Alsulaiman IKEA, proudly supports the second Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, directed by Ute Meta Bauer with the theme “After the Rain.” Taking place until the 24th of March 2024, the event is being held at JAX District in Diriyah.
The Biennale, Saudi Arabia’s grand modern art showcase, now in its second edition, displays 177 artworks by 100 artists from 40 countries. This event has welcomed over 150,000 visitors to date, highlighting a diverse global art scene.
IKEA, under Alsulaiman Group, plays a vital part in the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale. They add both practical and beautiful elements to the exhibition, using their furniture to enhance installations and create flexible, attractive art spaces.
IKEA’s influence on creativity, innovation, and sustainability expands through its involvement. Artists such as Suzann Victor creatively employ IKEA items in their art, turning everyday objects into captivating pieces. For instance, Victor’s “Strike” sculpture uses IKEA vases to craft a musical display. When visitors lightly tap these water-filled vases, they produce a harmonious melody, adding to the exhibit’s allure.
“At Alsulaiman Group, our partnership with the Diriyah Biennale Foundation is a testament to our commitment to functionality, sustainability, and inspiring creativity,” said Saud Alsulaiman, CEO of Alsulaiman Group. “Through our support for the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, we aim to showcase how our furniture is not just functional but also serves as a canvas for creativity, inspiring artists and visitors alike to see the potential in everyday objects. Our focus on sustainability is central to our participation, as we demonstrate how simple changes, like repurposing furniture or using sustainable materials, can have a positive impact on the environment.”
Alsulaiman Group’s collaboration with the Diriyah Biennale Foundation highlights the role of art in fostering cultural connections. Through their support for projects like the Diriyah Biennale, Alsulaiman Group and Alsulaiman IKEA are enriching Saudi Arabia and the broader region culturally.
Empowering Creativity Through Education
Alsulaiman IKEA will hold educational workshops at the JAX District, in addition to supporting the exhibition.
The workshops, suitable for kids and grown-ups, focus on furniture design, reuse, and recycling, in line with Alsulaiman Group’s eco-friendly goals. Visitors can explore their creativity and discover ways to reuse IKEA items, promoting a greener lifestyle and awareness of the environment.
The workshops are scheduled for May at the JAX District. They’re open to artists, creators, and anyone interested, providing a special chance to explore the connections between art, design, and sustainability.
Participants will join a Furniture Design Master Class (12th, 13th, and 14th May) during the workshops. They’ll delve into IKEA’s Democratic Design approach, which looks at functionality, beauty, quality, sustainability, and affordability. Local instructors, with support from IKEA experts, will guide the sessions, offering a hands-on learning journey into product creation and design principles.
The event’s workshops cater to a range of ages and interests. “Little Splashes” (15th May) focuses on kids aged 6-11, teaching them creative skills. “Revive & Renew” (20th May) is for adults, teaching how to revitalize furniture sustainably. “Crafting with Nature” (21st May) encourages all ages to create eco-friendly home items. These fun workshops aim to inspire a sustainable lifestyle and creative recycling.
