Riyadh-based Saudi artist selected for UK-GCC digital residency – Saudi Gazette

Riyadh-based Saudi artist selected for UK-GCC digital residency – Saudi Gazette

Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH “” Alaa, a Riyadh-based young artist, will participate in the Making Marks: Connect ME Digital Residency “” a joint initiative from the British Council and the Arab British Centre “” which aims to connect the Gulf and the UK during COVID-19.The program pairs 18-30-year-old artists based in the UK with artists based in the GCC, to create new, collaborative work that considers how digital tools can encourage connectivity across borders. Throughout August, Alaa will be paired with Northern Ireland artist Ellie Niblock, and together they will virtually develop their practice, create new collaborative work, and make new connections. They will also take part in online workshops, critique sessions and have access to 'visiting' artists and mentors over the four weeks.Alaa specializes in urbanity and the built environment, with her work influenced by her academic background and training in architecture.Speaking about the residency, she said: "Being a part of the Making Marks digital residency is so exciting; the residency comes at a time where it isn't purely reactive to the physical limitations brought about by the pandemic, rather the format for the residency is extremely thoughtful and fits so well with the conscious use of technology to transcend