Riyadh: Film enthusiasts have gathered at Riyadh’s Fenaa Alawwal for Art Films Week, an event showcasing a selection of acclaimed documentaries and animations aimed at fostering cultural exchange and dialogue, organized under Saudi Arabia’s Museums Commission.

Running until Nov. 21, the five-day Art Films Week is presenting five films: “Nam June Paik: Moon is the Oldest TV,” “Van Gogh and Japan,” “Omar Sharif: A Nomad’s Life,” “The King and Mister Bird,” and “The Prince Voyage.”

The opening day featured “Nam June Paik: Moon is the Oldest TV” by director Amanda Kim, which chronicles Paik’s meteoric rise in the New York art scene and his vision of a future where “everybody will have his own TV channel.”

South African visitor Gavin Eckhart emphasized the film’s potential to inspire self-expression in the modern age. “Showing this documentary in this context might allow people to find their own self-expression within the modern age,” he told Arab News. 

He further highlighted the artist’s innovative use of technology to break boundaries despite a restrictive upbringing.

“I have really enjoyed his expressive nature in the context of manipulating the available technology,” he said. “He was able to break boundaries and innovate despite his restrictive upbringing, doing so in the most avant-garde way.” 

The documentaries were selected to align with the event’s theme by exploring art and creativity, showcasing influential artists like Nam June Paik, and highlighting the intersection of art and culture.

Visitors can enjoy the screenings in Fenaa Alawwal’s outdoor area, where kiosks provide a variety of food and refreshments. 

Under Vision 2030’s Quality of Life Program, Saudi Arabia is witnessing transformative progress across various sectors, with the cultural industry playing a key role. The number of cultural facilities in the Kingdom surpassed its 2023 target of 41, reaching 45, reflecting the nation’s commitment to fostering a diverse cultural landscape. 

Fenaa Alawwal is a key cultural facility in the capital Riyadh and was established by the Ministry of Culture to promote culture as a way of life.

Its landmark building first opened in 1988 and was recently placed under the custody of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City as part of Saudi Vision 2030’s National Transformation Program.