The "Noor Riyadh 2024" celebration launched yesterday in its fourth edition, lighting up the sky over the Saudi capital with more than 60 light artworks, created by 60 artists representing 18 countries, under the theme "From Earth to Ether." The festivities run through December 14, 2024 across three main sites: the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifah, and JAX District, turning the city into an open-air art gallery that blends authenticity with modernity.

Artistic Diversity Between Light and Technology

This year's celebration presents exceptional artistic experiences exploring the interplay of light, innovative technology, and cultural expression. It brings together 18 Saudi artists alongside 43 international artists, including:

  • Chris Levine, with his work "Supreme Power 2024," projected from the top of the 267-meter Al Faisaliah Tower, using Morse code to broadcast a message of peace and hope.
  • Daan Roosegaarde in Wadi Hanifah, with his work "SPARK," which illuminates nature using biodegradable light sparks as a sustainable alternative to fireworks.
  • United Visual Artists at the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, presenting "Ether" using 1,500 drones, drawing inspiration from Pythagoras's concept of the "music of the spheres."

Saudi artist Rashed Al-Shashai also shines with his work "The Fifth Pyramid," inviting visitors to reflect on Riyadh's transformation into a capital of art.

Cultural and Interactive Dimensions

Festival director Eng. Nouf Al-Muneef said Noor Riyadh aims to inspire the community and strengthen the bond between art and people through light installations that reflect the relationship between earth and sky. She added that the program includes workshops and guided tours for all age groups, along with panel discussions bringing together leading artists and international experts.

Riyadh Art program director Eng. Khaled Al-Hazani also affirmed that the celebration embodies the program's vision of turning the capital into an open-air gallery that strengthens the creative economy and cements Riyadh's status as a global art destination.

Global Achievements

Since its launch in 2019, the Riyadh Art program has achieved 14 Guinness World Records, making Noor Riyadh one of the most prominent light art celebrations globally. It has so far attracted more than 6 million visitors from around the world.