Diriyah Art Futures Opens Applications for 3rd Emerging New Media Artists Programme
Diriyah Art Futures (DAF), the first centre dedicated to New Media Arts in the MENA region, has officially opened applications for the third edition of its Emerging New Media Artists programme, scheduled to begin in October 2026.
Developed in collaboration with Le Fresnoy – Studio National des Arts Contemporains in France and supported by the Museums Commission, this one-year programme provides participants with access to advanced professional equipment and facilities, a dedicated production budget, and personalized mentorship from leading international artists working in digital and new media.
Diriyah Art Futures
Since its launch in November 2024, the programme has supported a diverse group of emerging artists from the region and beyond, offering a platform to develop ambitious and innovative projects. With strong participation from Saudi Arabia and the wider MENA region, the initiative reflects DAF’s ongoing commitment to elevating regional voices within global dialogues at the intersection of art, science, and technology.
The programme begins with a three-month phase focused on thematic and conceptual exploration of contemporary topics. This stage includes seminars, lectures, screenings, and workshops led by artists and theorists. Participants then move into a production phase, where they develop original works under the guidance of established artists and scholars, utilizing DAF’s state-of-the-art facilities. These include tools and technologies such as immersive environments, coding, machine learning, sensing systems, advanced audio-visual techniques, and spatial media.
The programme concludes with a curated exhibition at DAF, showcasing the participants’ final works.
Applications for the 2026–2027 cycle are now open, with a deadline of May 31, 2026. Applicants must be 35 years old or younger, have completed or be near completing a graduate or postgraduate degree, and demonstrate experience in New Media or Digital Art. Further details, including eligibility criteria and the application process, are available online.
Related Topics:
Diriyah Art Futures: Groundbreaking Hub for Digital Art
Diriyah Biennale to Host 2nd PaperBack Art Book Fair in November
Saudi Arabia Expands Global Mining Partnerships with Chile, Canada, Brazil
Diriyah’s JAX District Hosts Stunning International Art Exhibition
