The Italians’ ‘Diplomacy of Art’

BMG Foundation, in partnership with the Italian Consulate in Jeddah, is hosting emerging Italian photographer Teresa Emanuele’s exhibition tomorrow evening in the consulate premises.
Curated by Saudi art specialist Dalya Islam, the exhibition titled ‘QVOD VIDES, TOTVM’ (All That is Seen) includes a body of 26 new works by the artist, including two kinetic and one video installations, inspired by stoic philosopher Seneca the Younger’s (4 BC— 64 AD) writings.
“I feel extremely honored to have been chosen among many talented Italian artists to represent my country for the second edition of ‘Diplomacy of Art’. I believe art should be the common language between different cultures, a means for sharing and understanding. Being in the Middle East is a whole new experience to me,” said Emanuele.
“What I attempted to do with ‘QVOD VIDES, TOTVM’ is bring to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia an expression of nature that does not exist here. If woods, trees, waterfalls appear so magnificent to my trained eyes, I am hoping they will fascinate the Saudi public,” she further said.
The exhibition is part of BMG Foundations’ Diplomacy of Art initiative that aims to foster inter-cultural and regional understanding and appreciation through cultural, artistic and sporting events.
“For over a decade, we at BMG Foundation have been pioneers in enhancing the appreciation of art among Saudi art goers by hosting unique exhibitions and competitions. We also have been catalysts in discovering rising local talents,” said chairman of BMG Foundation, Basil Al-Ghalayini.
“Diplomacy of Art reflects the importance of art in the language of diplomacy among different cultures and nations, and an unstable political world. Every year, we will be hosting two talented international artists, from the East and West, to have their works exhibited across the Kingdom. We are very pleased to have with us this week such a talented artist as Teresa Emanuele,” he said.
As part of BMG Foundation’s corporate responsibility program, the exhibition’s proceeds will also be used to raise funds for their safe driving campaign that will be implemented in the coming months across the Kingdom in a bid to raise social awareness on the perils of reckless driving prevalent among Saudi youth.