Saudi Arabia’s Visual Arts Commission has opened applications for its 2025–2026 “Art Bridges” programs, designed to further foster cultural exchange, according to Arab News.
The programs will take place in Scotland, Japan, South Korea, and Spain. The initial edition, held in collaboration with the British Council Scotland, will be hosted in Scotland from September 22 to 27. Subsequent editions will take place in Japan from October 31 to November 7, then South Korea from November 19 to 27, with Spain hosting the final program from March 2 to 9, 2026.
Each edition of Art Bridges will reflect the character of its host country, boasting meetings with thought leaders, visits to pioneering cultural institutions, museums, galleries, and artist studios. Furthermore, the program features various workshops, knowledge-sharing sessions, along with discussions with prominent local artists.
Outstanding Themes
The 2025–2026 Art Bridges programs will each focus on a particular theme. In Japan, the edition will focus on art and the environment, exploring how artists engage with natural, urban, and traditional landscapes. Meanwhile, South Korea’s program will highlight questions of identity through art and society, underscoring community cultural movements, independent artist spaces, along with collaborative platforms. In Spain, the program will explore heritage and collaborative practice, highlighting how shared artistic expression intersects with cultural spaces and social purpose.
Application and Requirements
The application window for interested people opened on August 13. The deadline for Japan is set for August 21, while applications for South Korea and Spain will close on August 31.
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- They must be over 21 years old
- They must possess a minimum of five years of professional experience
- Applicants must present a strong portfolio
- They must demonstrate fluency in English
- They must commit to attending the full program schedule
The commission’s CEO, Dina Amin, said that the initiative offers a unique platform for cultural practitioners to share their creative voices with the world.
Related Topics:
Summer Piano Intensive: Fostering Musical Skills, Cultural Landscape
