Rooted in tradition, Riyadh is also establishing itself as a global hub for contemporary and digital art. Artists like Turki AlQahtani are at the forefront of this cultural renaissance, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression by blending heritage with cutting-edge technology.
“Patterns have long been central to Arab culture as a visual language of identity, history, and meaning,” says Turki AlQahtani, a media artist and filmmaker whose work explores Arab motifs through a digital lens. His journey began with a handheld camera, capturing everyday life, but soon evolved into a more intentional practice of constructing patterns, often using himself as the subject. Through his lens, traditional garments such as the shemagh, bisht, and dagla are reimagined in vibrant compositions. Alongside this, Turki AlQahtani explores a broader spectrum of Arab visual culture, from post-internet aesthetics to artificial intelligence, reinterpreting them into dynamic visual narratives.
A Digital Canvas
AlQahtani’s artistic journey started in filmmaking, but over time, his approach shifted towards media art.
“I didn’t step into media art from scratch—my foundation in film continues to shape how I create and develop my work,” he explains.
His unique background gives his art a unique perspective, with carefully considered pacing and composition. Currently, his installation Kilobytes (2024) is part of the The Silent Age of Singularity exhibition at Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall. The piece captures the essence of early Arab post-internet culture from the 2000s to 2010s—a period that shaped his early experiences as a child immersed in flashing, chaotic online visuals. This fusion of eye-catching digital compositions and Arab heritage is what sets his work apart, making it both personal and universally relatable.
Turki AlQahtani on Authenticity and Automation
As a participant in the Emerging New Media Artists Programme at Diriyah Art Futures, Turki AlQahtani is deeply invested in the intersection of artificial intelligence and automated creativity. His engagement with AI began
with his master’s dissertation, where he examined how people perceive authenticity in human made & AI-generated works. That theoretical exploration later turned into artistic practice during his residency
at Misk Art Institute, where he experimented with deepfake technology and synthesized a voice from recordings of Saudi artists to create hyper-realistic Saudi personas.
“At Misk Art Week, I created a space where technology could directly confront viewers, presenting arguments for
its own artistic legitimacy,” he says.
His installation titled ‘not human, 2023’ addresses traditional notions of authorship and creativity, sparking conversations on the evolving role of technology in the art world.
A Thriving Art Community
Being an artist-in-residence at Qurma Studio in Jax District has provided turki AlQahtani with the space and support to further develop his work. “Having my own private space allows me to focus on research and share my process with studio visitors. Being surrounded by other creatives builds this space where we learn from each other while developing our different practices together,” he shares.
With Riyadh Art Week approaching, he looks forward to showcasing his latest projects. The growing accessibility of art in Riyadh has also played a crucial role in shaping the city’s cultural landscape. “I remember being in Jax District on the last day of Noor Riyadh last year and seeing large crowds queuing to experience the artworks. It was inspiring to witness such a strong public presence until the very last moment,” he recalls. Events like Misk Art Week and the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale have made art more available to the public, turning it into an activity people actively seek out and engage with.
Shaping Riyadh’s Art Scene
The transformation of Riyadh’s art scene is not just about aesthetics—it’s about enriching the city’s quality of life. “Art shapes a city’s identity and cultural landscape. Beyond displaying artworks, the growing art scene includes workshops, talks, and programs that allow the public to engage with art on a deeper level,” Turki AlQahtani explains.
Public art initiatives, such as installations integrated into the Riyadh Metro, are turning everyday spaces into cultural landmarks, making art an integral part of the urban experience. For emerging artists, Riyadh’s evolution presents unprecedented opportunities.
“More opportunities exist than ever before, but progress depends on continuous effort, developing a body of work, and taking initiative,” he advises.
While the city now offers a more supportive environment, success still requires persistence and self-drive. With artists like Turki AlQahtani leading the charge, Riyadh’s art scene is at the forefront of a new movement—a fusion of tradition and innovation that is redefining what it means to be a contemporary artist in the digital age.
To learn more about his work, check out @turkalqahtani.
