Saudi Artist Dana Awartani Takes Her Work to Venice Biennale

The upcoming Venice Biennale Arte 2024 promises a vibrant showcase of international talent, with Saudi Arabia's artistic presence secured by renowned artist Dana Awartani. Selected to present a newly commissioned work at the event's central pavilion, Awartani's participation marks a significant moment for both the artist and the Saudi art scene.

Awartani, a Saudi artist of Palestinian heritage, is known for her captivating works that draw inspiration from Islamic art. Utilising the intricate language of geometric abstraction, she creates pieces that are not only visually stunning but also philosophically profound, reflecting on the rich tapestry of Arab culture.

This opportunity for Awartani is made possible by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation (DBF). Recognizing the importance of global engagement, the DBF actively commissions artworks and fosters connections between Saudi Arabian artists and the international art world. Their support has fully funded the production of Awartani's new work, allowing her to focus on a highly ambitious project specifically designed for the Venice Biennale.

Awartani's artistic journey is storied, having previously participated in renowned biennales such as the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale in 2021, the Lyon Contemporary Art Biennale in 2022, and most recently, Sharjah Biennial 15 in 2023. Her recent works, ‘Come, Let Me Heal Your Wounds’, and the film, ‘Listen To My Words’, were also featured in the second edition of the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale titled ‘After Rain’ earlier this year.

The 60th Venice Biennale Arte, titled ‘Stranieri Ovunque - Foreigners Everywhere’ and curated by Adriano Pedrosa, promises to be a platform for exploring themes of identity and displacement in our interconnected world. Awartani's commissioned work will be presented alongside the Saudi Arabian national pavilion, which will feature a solo exhibition by artist Manal Al-Dowayan.