Salon des Arts celebrates French-Saudi artistic collaboration and cultural harmony
Jeddah – The first edition of Salon des Arts at the French Residence in Jeddah marked a new chapter in cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and France. The event beautifully combined art, music, and creative conversations, uniting artists from both nations in a celebration of shared passion and artistic harmony.
The evening featured live performances, interactive visual displays, and artistic discussions that reflected the growing cultural relationship between France and Saudi Arabia. It highlighted how art continues to serve as a universal language, bridging communities and fostering deeper understanding across cultures.
The French Consulate in Jeddah announced the formation of a new community of former artists-in-residence from the Cite Internationale des Arts in Paris. This initiative was supported by Saudi artists Zahra Bundakji and Danah Qari, alongside other well-known creative figures such as Joud Fahmy, Zahiyah Al-Raddadi, Bricklab, and Nour Gary.
French Consul General Mohamed Nehad described the program as a symbol of collaboration and artistic growth. He noted that many Saudi artists had previously taken part in French residencies, gaining new skills and international exposure. He emphasized that gatherings like Salon des Arts help reconnect these creative minds and strengthen their shared artistic journey.
He praised Saudi Arabia’s dynamic art scene, calling it vibrant, youthful, and full of inspiration. He highlighted how Saudi artists continue to energize the creative dialogue with their innovative ideas and bold expressions, enriching both local and international art landscapes.
Cultural attaché Quentin Richard expressed that the event embodied the ongoing artistic dialogue between the two nations. He explained that residencies in Paris and Jeddah create a continuous exchange built on creativity, respect, and mutual discovery. These opportunities, he said, strengthen ties between artists and encourage them to learn from one another’s experiences.
Adding to the event’s charm, the French musical group Oriki performed during the evening. The group, currently in residence at Hayy Cinema, collaborated with Saudi artist Salma Murad to deliver an emotionally charged performance that fused sound and storytelling.
Their vocalist, Woz Kaly, spoke about the powerful emotional bond formed with Jeddah’s artistic community. He said that their performance invited audiences to imagine cinematic scenes through music alone, encouraging them to feel and interpret stories in their own way.
The Salon also gave the public an intimate look into the creative process. Zahra Bundakji explained that most people see the finished artwork but rarely experience the journey behind it — the experiments, the failures, and the discoveries. She emphasized that art thrives in these unseen moments of creation and collaboration.
For her, the event was not just an exhibition but a living, breathing space for dialogue and connection. It allowed visitors to explore the emotional layers behind every artwork and interact directly with the artists who bring them to life.
Artist Danah Qari added that the event created a space for people to discuss how art reflects life — and how life, in turn, inspires art. She described it as a platform where feelings, stories, and personal experiences merge into creative expression.
The Salon des Arts demonstrated how artistic gatherings can nurture empathy, inspire imagination, and strengthen international friendships. Through every painting, performance, and conversation, the event showcased the unifying power of art and its ability to connect hearts across borders.
As new artistic residencies prepare to begin in December in collaboration with the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum and Athr Gallery, the partnership between France and Saudi Arabia continues to grow stronger. Salon des Arts stands as a symbol of cultural unity — a reminder that creativity knows no boundaries and that true art is born where different worlds meet in harmony.
