In the heart of the desert, Future Bedouin weaves a digital dreamland, blending tradition with a futuristic narrative.
Imagine walking through the vast desert, where the golden sand dunes rise like mountains under the blazing sun. Suddenly, the winds stir, and the sand begins to shift, as if alive. Pink silk fabric floats down from the sky, balloons appear on the horizon, and inflatable castles spring up like whimsical architecture in the barren landscape. While the desert remains unchanged, your perception is forever altered. Welcome to the dreamscape of Saudi Arabia, as reimagined by Future Bedouin.
In this interview, we explore the creative journey of Future Bedouin, the AI-driven art project founded by Polish artist Alex Olszewska. Based in both Dubai and Riyadh, Olszewska began her exploration in 2018, pioneering a new narrative at the crossroads of technology and cultural storytelling.
We delve into her fascination with blending traditional Arabic motifs with futuristic visions, capturing the dynamic transformation of Saudi Arabia. From AI-driven art to cultural evolution, Future Bedouin shares insights into her creative process, the inspiration behind her work, and the powerful role of art in shaping a new cultural narrative for the region…
Can you tell us about your journey into the world of AI art? What initially sparked your interest in this medium?
My journey into AI art began with a deep fascination for how technology can reshape and elevate our cultural storytelling. Growing up amidst the vast deserts of Saudi Arabia and the vibrant energy of cities like Dubai, I was drawn to the beauty of these landscapes and cultures. I wanted to capture that essence in a way that bridges the past and the future. AI emerged as the perfect tool - enabling me to reimagine traditional Arabic motifs while offering a fresh, forward-looking perspective that speaks to both heritage and futurism.
What were some of your early influences or inspirations that led you to explore the intersection of technology and art?
My early influences stemmed from the stark contrast I observed around me - ancient landscapes, calligraphy and architecture, all coexisting with the rapidly modernizing cities of the Middle East. Visionaries like Zaha Hadid, who masterfully blend the old with the new, inspired me to push these boundaries in my own work. I've always been captivated by how art can honour traditions while forging something innovative and meaningful for the future.
What themes or concepts do you find yourself drawn to in your artwork? How do these themes reflect your personal experiences?
I’m deeply inspired by themes of journey, connection and transformation. As I navigate the space between tradition and the future, I see my art as a pathway that links these two realms. The vast Saudi desert landscapes, the flowing forms of Bedouin tents, and the intricate textures of Arabic art are recurring motifs in my work. They reflect my journey of honouring my heritage while envisioning a future for the Arab world - one that blends digital landscapes with shared human experiences.
Can you walk us through your creative process when developing an AI artwork? What tools or technologies do you use?
My creative process starts with a clear vision - whether it’s capturing the essence of heritage or the dynamic energy of a modern Arabian landscape. I begin by collecting visual references, sketching concepts, and experimenting with textures and colour palettes. Using AI platforms, I train and refine models grounded in Middle Eastern imagery, often blending tools like DALL-E with custom-trained models to merge contemporary visuals with traditional patterns. This iterative process continues until the artwork resonates, weaving a narrative that bridges the past and the future.
In what ways do you believe your art contributes to the ongoing cultural changes in Saudi Arabia?
My art offers a perspective that honours both tradition and progress. I hope to inspire people in Saudi Arabia to see our heritage not as something fixed, but as a living, evolving source of innovation. In the midst of cultural reforms and rapid growth, my work reflects the vision of a Saudi Arabia that embraces its roots while looking boldly toward the future. Through my art, I aim to instill pride in our culture and ignite curiosity about its endless possibilities for transformation.
What message or perspective do you hope to communicate to a global audience through your work?
Through my work, I aim to showcase the Arab world as a rich, diverse tapestry that is intricately connected to both its past and future. I seek to present an authentic, nuanced narrative that celebrates our landscapes, and forward-thinking vision. For a global audience, I hope to challenge stereotypes and offer a fresh perspective - one that reveals an evolving culture that embraces modernity without ever losing touch with its essence.
As cultural shifts occur in Saudi Arabia, how do you see the role of artists changing in society?
Artists are becoming essential visionaries in Saudi Arabia’s transformation, playing a crucial role in reflecting, challenging and shaping the nation’s evolving identity. As society changes, we have the unique opportunity to bridge the past and the future, connecting communities to their heritage while exploring new possibilities. We are not just storytellers. We are catalysts for change, reshaping the narrative and inspiring fresh perspectives that invite others to see our culture in a new light. Through our work, we can inspire people to rethink the very essence of who we are and where we are headed.
In your opinion, what elements make a piece of Saudi art resonate with the public and encourage sharing, leading to its viral success?
Saudi art resonates when it taps into something familiar yet fresh - when people feel a connection to the culture, colours or stories portrayed. Visual storytelling that incorporates our landscapes, like the vastness of the desert or the sacredness of specific symbols, can create a sense of pride and belonging. Art that captures the spirit of change or reimagines traditional elements in modern contexts has the power to inspire and go viral.
What role do these images play in shaping an alternative visual narrative of Saudi Arabia?
These images present a contemporary, forward-thinking vision of Saudi Arabia, one that transcends the traditional. By merging AI with cultural themes, they convey that our culture is not only dynamic but poised to shape the future. This alternative narrative unveils a side of Saudi Arabia that is both progressive and deeply anchored in its heritage. It’s a way to share our story with the world - celebrating who we are, while offering a glimpse into the boundless possibilities ahead.
Photography Credit: Future Bedouin
