Fenaa Alawwal Launches First ‘Muntada FAA’ Forum in Riyadh

Fenaa Alawwal (FAA), a premier cultural and creative hub in Riyadh, has announced the launch of the first edition of “Muntada FAA” (FAA Forum), scheduled to take place from 15 to 19 September 2024 at its premises in the Diplomatic Quarters in Riyadh. The five-day event, co-curated with afikra, aims to foster knowledge exchange, introspection, and exploration of contemporary art practices in Saudi Arabia amid the Kingdom’s creative transformation. Under the theme “Introspection: Role of Contemporary Art Practices in a Time of Change,” the forum will feature panel discussions, keynote talks, and interactive experiences, bringing together 24 creative artists, thinkers, writers, and experts.

Context and Background

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a cultural renaissance as part of Vision 2030, with increasing investment in arts, entertainment, and community initiatives. Fenaa Alawwal, known for its commitment to cross-cultural exchange and dialogue, plays a vital role in this landscape. “Muntada FAA” emerges as a platform to reflect on the evolving role of contemporary art in a society experiencing rapid change. The forum’s co-curation with afikra, a global community promoting Arab culture and history, underscores the collaborative spirit driving Saudi Arabia’s creative sector. This event aligns with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to empower youth, foster cultural participation, and position Saudi Arabia as a hub for artistic innovation.

Programme Highlights

“Muntada FAA” will host five panel discussions over five days, covering topics such as Saudi artists’ role in shaping the Kingdom’s global image, Saudi youth culture including music, street art, and fashion, the professional landscape for art practitioners, the emergence of cultural hubs and art districts in urban centers, and the intersection of food and art. In addition to these panels, the forum will feature three keynote talks by renowned figures in arts and culture, an interactive “Kitchen Lab” experience with a celebrated chef, and a “Culinary Performance.” The diverse programme reflects the dynamic and multidisciplinary nature of Saudi Arabia’s creative scene. Seats are limited, and tickets can be purchased through the Discover Culture platform at https://dc.moc.gov.sa/home/ar/muntada-faa/.

Implications for the Creative Community

By bringing together a diverse community of creative thinkers, “Muntada FAA” aims to inspire, ignite debate, and unlock new directions for art and culture in Saudi Arabia. This initiative not only provides a platform for established professionals but also nurtures emerging talents, contributing to a vibrant and sustainable creative ecosystem. The forum’s focus on introspection and societal participation highlights the role of art in driving social progress and cultural exchange, both within the Kingdom and internationally. It reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a destination for cultural tourism and a leader in the global arts dialogue.

Vision 2030 Alignment

“Muntada FAA” directly supports Vision 2030 goals of enhancing quality of life, promoting cultural heritage, and fostering a knowledge-based economy. By empowering artists and facilitating cross-cultural dialogue, the forum contributes to the Kingdom’s transformation into a global cultural hub. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its creative industries, events like this demonstrate the nation’s commitment to nurturing talent and building a thriving arts sector that resonates with both local and international audiences.

20 Questions

Q1. What is “Muntada FAA”?

A1. “Muntada FAA” is the first edition of a forum organized by Fenaa Alawwal, a cultural hub in Riyadh. It aims to explore contemporary art practices in Saudi Arabia through panel discussions, keynote talks, and interactive experiences, fostering knowledge exchange and introspection among creatives.

Q2. When and where will “Muntada FAA” take place?

A2. The forum will be held from 15 to 19 September 2024 at Fenaa Alawwal’s premises in the Diplomatic Quarters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, providing a central location for cultural engagement and dialogue.

Q3. Who is organizing “Muntada FAA”?

A3. Fenaa Alawwal (FAA) is organizing the event, designed and developed by the center itself. It is co-curated with afikra, a global community dedicated to promoting Arab culture and history, ensuring a rich and diverse programme.

Q4. What is the theme of the first edition?

A4. The theme is “Introspection: Role of Contemporary Art Practices in a Time of Change.” It focuses on how collaborative and community-based events contribute to societal participation and the evolution of art in Saudi Arabia.

Q5. How many panel discussions will be held?

A5. Five panel discussions will be held over five days, covering topics such as Saudi artists’ global image, youth culture, art professionalism, cultural hubs, and the intersection of food and art, featuring 24 experts.

Q6. Who are the participants in the panel discussions?

A6. The panels will bring together 24 creative artists, thinkers, writers, and experts in the field of art, offering diverse perspectives and insights into contemporary art practices in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Q7. What are the topics of the panel discussions?

A7. Topics include Saudi artists’ role in shaping the Kingdom’s global image; Saudi youth culture: music, street art & fashion; being an art professional; cultural hubs and art districts; and the intersection of food and art.

Q8. Will there be keynote talks?

A8. Yes, three keynote talks will be delivered by renowned public figures in the arts and culture scene, who will share their experience and knowledge with the audience, providing inspiration and deeper insights into the sector.

Q9. What is the “Kitchen Lab” experience?

A9. The “Kitchen Lab” is an interactive experience with a celebrated chef, exploring the intersection of food and art. It will also include a “Culinary Performance,” blending gastronomy with creative expression.

Q10. How can the public attend?

A10. Seats are limited, and tickets can be purchased through the Discover Culture platform at https://dc.moc.gov.sa/home/ar/muntada-faa/. Interested individuals are encouraged to secure their spots early.

Q11. What is the significance of “Muntada FAA” for Saudi Arabia?

A11. It reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cultural development under Vision 2030, providing a platform for artistic exchange, community engagement, and the showcasing of Saudi creativity on a global stage.

Q12. How does “Muntada FAA” support Vision 2030?

A12. The forum aligns with Vision 2030 goals of enhancing quality of life, promoting cultural heritage, and fostering a knowledge-based economy by empowering artists and facilitating cross-cultural dialogue.

Q13. What is Fenaa Alawwal’s role in the community?

A13. Fenaa Alawwal serves as a unique cultural and creative hub that inspires cross-cultural exchange and dialogue, offering a space for artistic expression and community engagement in Riyadh.

Q14. Who is afikra?

A14. afikra is a global community that promotes Arab culture and history through events, discussions, and digital content. Its co-curation of “Muntada FAA” brings international perspectives to the forum.

Q15. What is the expected impact of the forum?

A15. The forum aims to inspire the community, ignite debate, and unlock new directions for art and culture in Saudi Arabia, contributing to a vibrant creative ecosystem and societal progress.

Q16. Are there opportunities for youth involvement?

A16. Yes, the forum includes discussions on Saudi youth culture, such as music, street art, and fashion, highlighting the role of young creatives in shaping the Kingdom’s cultural landscape.

Q17. How does the forum address contemporary art practices?

A17. Through panel discussions and keynote talks, the forum explores how contemporary art practices evolve in times of change, emphasizing introspection, collaboration, and community-based productions.

Q18. What makes “Muntada FAA” unique?

A18. Its multidisciplinary approach, combining art, food, and dialogue, along with co-curation with afikra, creates a unique platform for creative exchange and introspection in Saudi Arabia’s cultural scene.

Q19. Will there be opportunities for networking?

A19. Yes, the forum brings together a diverse community of creative thinkers, providing ample opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among attendees and participants.

Q20. How can one stay updated on the programme?

A20. The public is invited to follow Fenaa Alawwal’s social media accounts for updates on the programme and agenda. Tickets are available via the Discover Culture platform.

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