Abdulrahman Alsoliman at Al Masmak Fortress: “Place of History’s Inscription”

Working with Abdulrahman Alsoliman, one of Saudi Arabia’s most respected modern artists, was a genuine highlight of this year’s Noor Riyadh Festival. His piece, Place of History’s Inscription, brings together expressive mark-making, layered symbolism and a deep connection to memory and land. Presenting this work at Al Masmak Fortress added an additional layer of significance that shaped every part of our creative and technical process.

A meeting of past and present

Al Masmak is a building that carries the weight of Saudi history. Its thick adobe walls, watchtowers and enclosed courtyards are woven into the story of the nation. To project contemporary art onto a structure like this is to invite a conversation between eras.

Alsoliman’s work, rich with gestural energy, responded powerfully to this context. The irregularities of the fortress walls softened the animation in ways that felt natural to the artwork, introducing a tactile quality that cannot be created on a flat surface.

Approach to animation

The animation, created by Rob Currie (Visual Edge Media), embraced the expressive qualities of Alsoliman’s brushwork. Instead of literal movement, the piece unfolded through layers – revealing and building forms in a way that echoed the artist’s own process. Our team supported the technical planning, projection integration and alignment with site constraints, helping to make sure the animation sat comfortably within the historical character of the fortress.

Collaborative guidance

Curator Sara Almutlaq provided essential context for the artwork’s conceptual framing, helping to guide decisions about pacing and focus in a way that remained faithful to the emotional and thematic core of Alsoliman’s practice. Her involvement ensured that the animation remained grounded rather than drifting toward a purely aesthetic interpretation.

Honouring a master of modern Saudi art

Alsoliman’s contribution to the development of contemporary Saudi art spans decades. Working with him on this new interpretation of Place of History’s Inscription was an honour, and we are grateful for his generosity and openness throughout the process.

A fitting home for a reflective work

Projected onto the walls of Al Masmak, the artwork felt not only visually powerful but contextually resonant. The dialogue between place and image created a layered experience for audiences, reminding us how heritage sites can hold and elevate contemporary creativity.

Working with such a significant figure in Saudi modern art, in a site as important as Al Masmak, has been a real privilege. It reminded us why we value this kind of work so deeply: the chance to contribute to a creative dialogue that respects history, honours the artist’s voice, and invites audiences to see familiar places in new ways.

Noor Riyadh thrives on collaborations like these, and we are thankful to have played a small part in shaping this year’s festival.

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