Dana Awartani to Represent Saudi Arabia at 61st Venice Biennale

Dana Awartani will represent Saudi Arabia at the 61st Venice Biennale, which runs from 9 May to 22 November 2026. Her exhibition in the Arsenale builds on her practice of foregrounding cultural histories from the Arab world and preserving the region's material heritage. Awartani's work focuses on repair and healing, addressing the overlooked loss of culture and heritage during conflict. She views craft as a form of quiet resistance against mechanization, emphasizing slow, handmade processes as meditative acts. Her installation, 'May your tears never dry, you who weep over stones,' reflects these themes. Awartani notes that the Saudi Pavilion emphasizes commonality over nationalism, showcasing the diversity of voices within Saudi Arabia's artistic community. She cites Ahmed Mater as a key influence for shaping the Saudi art scene through initiatives like Edge of Arabia. Awartani, based in Jeddah, highlights the multicultural influences on Saudi culture, such as Indonesian-Saudi cuisine. She believes art can change individuals by opening them to new perspectives through reflection rather than shock. The pavilion is commissioned by the Visual Arts Commission.