Diriyah Art Futures (DAF), the Kingdom’s burgeoning new media arts hub, has unveiled an ambitious April workshop program. Designed to bridge tradition and technology, the initiative invites artists, young creatives, and enthusiasts to explore cutting-edge artistic practices.
DAF’s fourth major exhibition, “Of the Earth: Earthly Technologies to Computational Biologies,” serves as the backdrop for this educational journey. Curated by Irini Papadimitriou, DAF’s exhibitions director, the showcase examines how digital advancements reshape humanity’s connection with nature. Running until 16 May, the exhibition sets the stage for a month of hands-on learning.
A Diverse Program for All Ages
The April workshops cater to a wide audience, from children to adults. Participants will engage in sessions spanning digital fabrication, watercolor painting, and performance art, ensuring an inclusive creative experience. Events kick off on 10 April with a bilingual youth workshop blending Arabic and English. From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., teens aged 13 to 18 will explore the fusion of sound, technology, and nature in an interactive format.
11 April brings “Print, Cut, Collage: Exploring AI in Mixed Media.” Here, participants will harness AI-generated imagery to craft digital compositions. They’ll then transform these works into physical pieces using collage, layering, and eco-printing with botanical materials.
Following closely, “Prints From Nature” (also 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) invites attendees to experiment with printmaking using organic elements like leaves, fruits, and vegetables. This session encourages deeper observation and engagement with natural textures.
As night falls, “Between Land and Stars” (from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.) shifts focus to the night sky. Through storytelling and discussion, participants will uncover how Arab communities historically used stars for navigation, seasonal tracking, and daily life.
Masterclass on Material Literacy: The Date Palm
For those seeking deeper insight, DAF hosts a two-day masterclass on 24-25 April, titled “Material Literacy: The Date Palm.” Running from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., this session challenges participants to view materials as carriers of identity, culture, and memory. With a focus on the date palm, a cornerstone of Saudi heritage, the workshop explores its role in food, craft, and architecture.
The program concludes on 25 April with a mold-making workshop using 3D printing. From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., attendees will learn to design and print molds. They’ll also delve into traditional clay slip casting to create personalized ceramic pieces.
For more details, visit DAF’s official website, as registration is open via social media channels, with tickets available at the door. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Saudi Arabia’s vibrant art scene.
