Leading Saudi artist Manal Aldowayan discusses Venice Biennale, 'Shifting Sands', and her journey

Saudi Arabia's leading contemporary artist Manal Aldowayan joins The TWENTY30 for an exclusive conversation and interview to discuss the #Venice Biennale, her journey from computer science major to leading artist, and the development of art in Saudi Arabia. Aldowayan is representing Saudi Arabia at the 2024 Venice Biennale with a multimedia installation entitled Shifting Sands: A Battle Song, showing from April to November. Manal AlDowayan is one of Saudi Arabia’s most significant contemporary artists working internationally. Her work, which spans various mediums including photography, sound, sculpture, and participatory practice, interrogates traditions, collective memories, and the status and representation of women. AlDowayan’s work has been exhibited regionally and internationally in the most prestigious art institutions such as the Guggenheim and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, The British Museum, and many others. Born in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia in 1973, AlDowayan currently lives and works between London and Dhahran. On Manal’s work at the #Biennale, Dina Amin, CEO of the Visual Arts Commission, says: “AlDowayan’s work is a profound reflection on the journey undertaken by Saudi women in recent years. Through her commission in Venice, the artist invites audiences to reflect on outdated stereotypes, while at the same time giving voice to Saudi women of today – strong, ambitious, and compassionate." The TWENTY30 co-hosts Lucien and Hanaa also ask Manal about her inspirations, vision, and what is next for the trailblazing Saudi artist as the Kingdom increasingly focuses on nurturing artistic talent in Saudi Arabia.