Manal AlDowayan discusses participatory art for Saudi Arabia's Venice Biennale pavilion

At the 60th Venice Biennale, Manal AlDowayan showcases her work for the National Pavilion of Saudi Arabia, which consists of three components: participatory activities across three Saudi cities where thousands of women provided drawings and statements, audio recordings from the Empty Quarter that capture the sound of singing sand dunes, and soft sculptures inspired by desert rose crystals. With two decades of experience in participatory art, AlDowayan has created pieces such as Esmi – My Name (2012) and Tree of Guardians (2014). Recent workshops included both genders, featuring many familiar participants. Her sculptures utilize layered printed media to challenge linguistic dominance, spotlighting women's voices. Dina Amin, the Pavilion's Commissioner, notified AlDowayan of her selection, which she joyfully shared with her mother.