Saudi artist Reem Al-Nasser discusses her Diriyah Art Futures Residency 

Saudi artist Reem Al-Nasser discusses her Diriyah Art Futures Residency 
Reem Al-Nasser has been selected for the inaugural Mazra’ah Media Arts Residency. (Credit: Jawad Tabatabai)
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Updated 16 May 2025
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Saudi artist Reem Al-Nasser discusses her Diriyah Art Futures Residency 

Saudi artist Reem Al-Nasser discusses her Diriyah Art Futures Residency 
  • Al-Nasser says she is inspired by area’s ‘natural beauty’ 

DUBAI: Saudi artist Reem Al-Nasser has been selected for the inaugural Mazra’ah Media Arts Residency, a new initiative from Diriyah Art Futures.  

The residency, which runs until July, brings together artists and scholars to explore emerging ecologies, speculative futures, and the evolving relationship between technology, nature and cultural heritage. 

Organized by the Museums Commission under the Saudi Ministry of Culture, the residency supports experimental research and production in the field of digital and new media art.  




Al-Nasser, one of three Saudi artists participating, described being selected as both an honor and a milestone in her artistic journey. (Supplied)

Participants are provided with a production budget and technical support, as well as access to labs and studios. The spring cohort includes artists and scholars from Saudi Arabia, India, Japan, France, Germany and the UK. 

Al-Nasser, one of three Saudi artists participating, described being selected as both an honor and a milestone in her artistic journey.  

“I felt immense happiness and deep honor,” she told Arab News. “Being chosen for such a prestigious residency was a validation of my artistic journey and gave me a sense of responsibility and excitement.” 

The theme of the inaugural residency is “High-Resolution Dreams from the Sands.” Artists are encouraged to examine the intersections of land and technology. Al-Nasser’s interpretation of the theme centers on the flower known in Arabic as Al-Samh — a plant native to Saudi Arabia, which she uses as a symbol of resilience, healing and shelter.  




Sketch of her upcoming work for the residency. (Supplied)

“I’m working on archiving the ancient behaviors associated with this flower as a symbol of defense and protection, incorporating its intricate details into digital artworks that simulate its essence,” she said.  

Al-Nasser is developing a series of interactive digital installations that integrate visual projection, augmented reality and artificial intelligence to animate the symbolic qualities of the flower and bring them into a contemporary digital art context. Her goal is to create a multi-sensory experience that immerses viewers in the story of the flower, blending visual detail with conceptual depth. 

“These tools allow me to present the intricate details of the Samh flower in a stunning and unprecedented way,” she said. 

Al-Nasser often draws inspiration from traditional storytelling and behavioral patterns, using art to reframe these ideas through a modern lens. “My style is a blend of digital and physical media, with a focus on storytelling — restructuring and connecting ancient knowledge with modern elements,” she said. “Being in Diriyah opened my eyes to the importance of drawing inspiration from local elements and presenting them in a contemporary manner. It’s also encouraged me to experiment with modern techniques I haven’t used before.  




Sketch of her upcoming work for the residency. (Supplied)

“Diriyah has also inspired me with its natural beauty, palm gardens and ancient forts, which have become a central focus in my work,” she continued. “The environment here encouraged me to deeply reflect on the relationship between nature and art and to celebrate its elements through technology. I hope people feel the profound connection between environmental science and the Desert Samh Flower and appreciate the power of nature in creating symbols that inspire art and creativity. I want them to reflect on the relationship between heritage and technology and how art can bridge the two.” 

As the Kingdom invests more heavily in cultural infrastructure and platforms such as DAF, Al-Nasser believes local artists are increasingly positioned to shape the global conversation around digital and new media art. 

“Saudi artists are producing remarkable works that are rooted in cultural heritage while integrating modern technologies,” she said. “They have the potential to revolutionize the global art scene by highlighting the beauty of local nature, like the Samh flower, in innovative ways.” 




'Bakila Recipe,' 2024, presented in Paris. (Supplied)

Al-Nasser’s journey into art began in her teenage years, driven by a fascination with creative expression and storytelling. “Art became my way of understanding the world and sharing my perspective,” she said, adding that her creative inspirations often stem from historical and behavioral patterns.  

“Ancient storytelling and understanding personal experiences were my primary sources of inspiration,” she explained. “I’ve always been fascinated by the beauty of subtle details in behaviors, their connection to time, and how art can highlight and center them in storytelling.” 


Red Sea-backed films set to shine at 2025 Locarno Film Festival

Red Sea-backed films set to shine at 2025 Locarno Film Festival
Updated 09 July 2025
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Red Sea-backed films set to shine at 2025 Locarno Film Festival

Red Sea-backed films set to shine at 2025 Locarno Film Festival

DUBAI: Three films supported by the Red Sea Film Foundation will feature at this year’s Locarno Film Festival, which takes place in Switzerland from Aug. 6-16.

Among the 2025 lineup are “Irkalla – Gilgamesh’s Dream” by Iraqi filmmaker Mohamed Al-Daradji, “Becoming” by Kazakh director Zhannat Alshanova, and “Exile” from Tunisian filmmaker Mehdi Hmili.

Each was backed by the foundation through either the Red Sea Fund or the Red Sea Souk, two initiatives designed to champion bold new voices from the Arab world and beyond.

“Irkalla – Gilgamesh’s Dream” offers a reimagining of the Epic of Gilgamesh set against a haunting contemporary backdrop. The film follows a street kid with diabetes as he tries to persuade his tough best friend, the legendary Gilgamesh, to take him to the underworld Arkala.

 “Becoming” by Alshanova, a London-based writer/director from Kazakhstan, follows a young woman grappling with identity and independence in modern-day Kazakhstan.

“Exile,” from Hmili, is a powerful portrait of displacement and belonging. In the biggest steel factory of Tunisia, four workers suffering from psychological and physical disorders are haunted by the loss of their colleague. In an atmosphere of social and political tension, their struggle will help them overcome their pain.

The Red Sea Film Foundation said it was “proud to have supported these exceptional projects” and celebrated their selection as a milestone moment for regional cinema.
 


Ashi Studio unveils sculptural silhouettes in Paris

Ashi Studio unveils sculptural silhouettes in Paris
Updated 09 July 2025
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Ashi Studio unveils sculptural silhouettes in Paris

Ashi Studio unveils sculptural silhouettes in Paris

DUBAI: Ashi Studio, founded by Saudi couturier Mohammed Ashi, presented its Fall/Winter 2026 haute couture collection during Paris Haute Couture Week, featuring a series of architectural gowns and tailored creations.

The collection focused on structured silhouettes and exaggerated proportions, with many looks emphasizing sharp tailoring, corsetry and sculpted waistlines. 

A palette of black, ivory and champagne was punctuated by shimmering metallics and embroidery. (Getty Images)

Several pieces featured dark satin corsets with lace trim, dramatic fishtails, high slits and cascading fringe panels. Throughout the collection, waists was cinched and hips were accentuated. 

A palette of black, ivory and champagne was punctuated by shimmering metallics and embroidery. Satin, tulle, lace and jacquard were prominent, with select garments incorporating feathers, beaded applique and textured embellishments. 

Several looks integrated embroidery that resembled botanical and animal motifs, while others featured sculptural three-dimensional elements like floral bustiers or carved wooden corsets. One standout piece was a cream ensemble embroidered with monkeys and leaves, while another featured a corset carved in a wood-like finish, wrapped by sculptural monkeys. 

One standout piece was a cream ensemble embroidered with monkeys and leaves, while another featured a corset carved in a wood-like finish, wrapped by sculptural monkeys. (Instagram)

Other designs included sheer tulle gowns with visible corsetry, jackets with dramatic shoulders and floral applique and fully sequined dresses embroidered with birds and foliage.

Some models carried small clutches made from matching textiles.

Nojoud Al-Rumaihi attended the show. (Getty Images) 

US rapper Cardi B was among the high-profile guests at the Paris-based brand’s presentation. She arrived wearing an ivory lace gown with a high-neck and long-sleeves. The dress featured sheer panels, tiered ruffles and a voluminous asymmetrical skirt. She completed the look with pointed heels and a side braid. 

The rapper posed for photos alongside Ashi ahead of the show.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Ashi Studio (@ashistudio)

Ashi’s creations have been worn by the likes of Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Jennifer Hudson, Kylie Minogue, Penélope Cruz, Deepika Padukone, Sonam Kapoor, Queen Rania of Jordan and more.  

Ashi became the first couturier from the Gulf region to join the Fédération de la Haute Couture in Paris as a guest member in 2023. He also became the first designer from the Gulf to be included in the BoF 500 list, the Business of Fashion’s index of the people shaping the fashion industry in 2023.

Ashi designed the inaugural fashion line for the cabin crew of the Kingdom’s new airline, Riyadh Air, which is on track to make its maiden flight this year. 


Riyadh Fashion Week issues final call for designer applications ahead of 3rd edition

Riyadh Fashion Week issues final call for designer applications ahead of 3rd edition
Updated 08 July 2025
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Riyadh Fashion Week issues final call for designer applications ahead of 3rd edition

Riyadh Fashion Week issues final call for designer applications ahead of 3rd edition

DUBAI: Riyadh Fashion Week (RFW) is gearing up for its third edition, with organizers issuing a final call for designer applications. Fashion houses from across Saudi Arabia and around the world have until July 15 to submit their proposals for inclusion in the official calendar.

One of the Middle East’s most anticipated fashion events, RFW offers a platform for both emerging and established designers to showcase their collections to international buyers and industry leaders. 

The official calendar will feature a broad spectrum of brand activations beyond traditional runway shows. Designers can also take part in curated presentations, showroom exhibitions, trunk shows, retail pop-ups, creative takeovers, private dinners and immersive experiences. 

Saudi Arabia-based and international fashion brands across ready-to-wear, couture, menswear, and streetwear categories are eligible. 
“This is more than a runway,” said Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission. “It is a statement of creative identity, innovation, and ambition. Riyadh Fashion Week provides a high-impact opportunity for designers to tell their story on a global stage.”


Zayed National Museum to explore UAE’s storied history

Zayed National Museum to explore UAE’s storied history
Updated 08 July 2025
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Zayed National Museum to explore UAE’s storied history

Zayed National Museum to explore UAE’s storied history
  • Located on Saadiyat Island, the Zayed National Museum has a bevy of illustrious neighbors including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum and teamLab Phenomena

DUBAI: As Zayed National Museum gets ready to open its doors in the UAE capital, Arab News spoke to director Peter Magee about the museum’s aims and what visitors can expect.

An opening date is yet to be announced, but the center will focus on the history of the UAE with special emphasis on Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It will explore early human settlements that go back 300,000 years as well as the area’s language, traditions, and flora and fauna. 

“The narrative within the museum is guided by the enduring values of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan,” explained Magee. “We look at those values and then we look at the way in which they guided him, but also the way in which they reflect social values which exist within the UAE both in the past and the present — and in the future.

Dr. Peter Magee. (Supplied)

“It's a national museum focused on the UAE, but of course it looks at the regional links which existed to other countries in the Arabian Gulf, the Indian Ocean and even further afield.”

One particular highlight is a full-size reconstruction of a Magan boat from the Bronze Age, constructed with reeds and palm-fiber rope. Magee and his team sailed in it for two days on the waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Located on Saadiyat Island, the Zayed National Museum has a bevy of illustrious neighbors including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum and teamLab Phenomena. (Supplied)

Located on Saadiyat Island, the Zayed National Museum has a bevy of illustrious neighbors including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum and teamLab Phenomena.

“The way I like to think about it is that each of these museums and institutions … is its own star … and in combination they appear like a constellation or something that can be read coherently together as well as individually,” Magee said.


Georges Hobeika showcases Fall/Winter 2026 collection at Paris Haute Couture Week

Georges Hobeika showcases Fall/Winter 2026 collection at Paris Haute Couture Week
Updated 08 July 2025
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Georges Hobeika showcases Fall/Winter 2026 collection at Paris Haute Couture Week

Georges Hobeika showcases Fall/Winter 2026 collection at Paris Haute Couture Week

DUBAI: Lebanese designer Georges Hobeika presented his Fall/Winter 2025/2026 couture collection as part of Paris Haute Couture Week.

Known for his craftsmanship and red-carpet-ready designs, Hobeika’s latest offering featured a wide array of detailed gowns and structured silhouettes.

The runway collection showcased a soft color palette, with shades of beige, blush pink, maroon, black, blue, and brown making up the core color story.

Fabrics included heavily embroidered textiles, delicate lace, satin and tulle. Many looks incorporated tonal embellishments and shimmering surface details. 

Beaded bodices, crystal fringe, and metallic appliqués were prominent throughout the collection, adding texture and dimension.

Silhouettes ranged from structured floor-length gowns and A-line dresses to voluminous skirts and sleek, form-fitting eveningwear. There were also several mid-length and tea-length designs with sculptural detailing, along with a few two-piece sets featuring cropped tops and high-waisted skirts.

One standout bridal look appeared during the show — a long-sleeved gown with sheer detailing and silver embroidery. The dress was paired with a beaded headpiece and a trailing veil.

Accessories were kept minimal, with statement earrings and clean, slicked-back hair showed off by the models.

Toward the end of the show, Hobeika and his son Jad Hobeika walked the runway together to thank their supporters.

Paris Haute Couture Week kicked off on Monday with Schiaparelli’s Fall 2025 show, marking the start of a series of high-fashion presentations that will run through July 10.

The opening show did not begin with sequins or traditional red carpet glamor, but with the surreal sight of Cardi B and a live crow. 

Wrapped in a custom Schiaparelli gown of graphic fringe, the US rapper stood beneath the gilded columns of the Petit Palais, holding the black bird on her arm. Her avian plus one squawked, glared and nearly lunged — setting the tone for a monochrome show that itself soared straight into the surreal.

On the first day, Iris Van Herpen, Imane Ayissi, Rahul Mishra, Julie de Libran and Giambattista Valli also showcased their collections.

In addition to Georges Hobeika, several other Arab designers are on the calendar, including Ashi Studio, Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad and Rami Al-Ali.