Culture & Education | Tuesday 7 February, 2017 4:27 am |

The Saudi General Entertainment Authority has announced its support for the prestigious ’21, 39’ art event, which is taking place in Jeddah between February and May 2017, with a series of opening events having taken place between February 1st-4th 2017.

’21, 39’ is organized by the Saudi Art Council, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting art and culture and supporting creativity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Council is chaired by HRH Princess Jawaher bint Majed Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Named after the geographic coordinates of the city (21.5433°N, 39.1728°E), ‘21-39’ seeks to maintain and develop Jeddah’s position at the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s contemporary art scene. The program will include curated exhibitions, gallery openings, workshops and a series of talks and discussions that aim to build bridges with the outside world through the universal language of art. ’21, 39’ also presents residents across Saudi Arabia with an opportunity to view and appreciate the artistic culture that exists and is developing in their homeland.

The fourth edition of ’21, 39’ is curated by artists Sam Bardaouil and Till Fellrath under the title safar – the Arabic word for travel – exploring the notion of travel and movement as a vehicle for learning and growth. safar will feature artworks, creative projects and new commissions by a number of Saudi artists.

Commenting, Amr AlMadani, CEO of the General Entertainment Authority, said: “Saudi Arabia’s artistic community has been growing in size and in confidence for a number of years now and it is initiatives such as ’21, 39’ that allows them a proper platform to showcase their talents.

“As the vehicle for a comprehensive range of entertainment options in Saudi Arabia, the General Entertainment Authority is proud to support an event that seeks to bring people together in a mutual appreciation of the power of art. Previous editions of ’21, 39’ have been extremely successful and we have no doubt that this year will see similar results.”