Wadi AlFann is turning heads this winter as the iconic James Turrell graces its sands with a dazzling exhibition. Known for his pioneering work in the Light and Space movement, Turrell’s creations are coming to life as part of the AlUla Arts Festival 2025. From January 16 to April 19, prepare for an artistic journey unlike any other in the breathtaking landscapes of AlUla, northwest Saudi Arabia. If you’re a fan of immersive art experiences, this one deserves a spot on your cultural radar.
James Turrell Exhibition: A Monument to Light and Perception
Turrell’s Wadi AlFann exhibition, curated by Michael Govan of LACMA fame, is no ordinary showcase. It features everything from light installations to plans for Turrell’s upcoming monumental commission in AlUla. Expect a multisensory experience that redefines the very concept of seeing.
Highlights include Alta (1968), a projection that transforms a dim room corner into a luminous geometric wonder, and Jubilee, Circular Glass (2021), a hypnotic interplay of mutating colors that challenge your perception. Don’t miss pieces from Turrell’s Magnatron and Hologram series, which explore light as a tangible, transformative medium.
Wadi AlFann: Where Land Art Meets Monumental Vision
Wadi AlFann, or the “Valley of the Arts,” is the desert’s answer to a contemporary cultural oasis. Set amidst AlUla’s striking sandstone cliffs, the site is destined to become a global hub for Land Art. Turrell is one of five trailblazing artists creating permanent installations here, alongside Agnes Denes, Ahmed Mater, Manal AlDowayan, and Michael Heizer.
Turrell’s large-scale AlUla commission features interconnected Skyspaces—chambers designed to engage natural light in uniquely transformative ways. Visitors will traverse tunnels and stairs to explore his immersive take on the interplay of sky, terrain, and human perception.
AlUla Arts Festival: A Journey Beyond Art
The AlUla Arts Festival isn’t just an exhibition; it’s a full-blown celebration of creativity set against an ancient desert backdrop. Running from January 16 to February 22, 2025, the festival offers workshops, artist residencies, and design showcases. As one of the flagship AlUla Moments events, it promises an immersive dive into the intersection of culture, heritage, and contemporary art.
Turrell’s exhibition will be spread across two venues in AlJadidah Arts District, AlUla’s historic old town. This setting not only complements the artist’s exploration of light and space but also grounds his work in the rich cultural fabric of the region.
A Match Made in the Desert: Turrell and AlUla’s Landscape
For Turrell, AlUla’s sandstone cliffs evoke a familiarity reminiscent of his work in Arizona. The region’s dry desert air enhances light quality, creating crisp, vivid skies that are ideal for his Skyspaces. As Turrell himself notes, “The light in AlUla is of dry desert air with little moisture, which yields a light in the sky that is crisp and clear.”
Why Wadi AlFann Matters for Global Art
Wadi AlFann is more than just a venue—it’s a statement. By hosting artists like Turrell, AlUla positions itself as a global epicenter for contemporary art. Nora Aldabal, Director of Arts and Creative Industries at the Royal Commission for AlUla, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “Through projects like this, we shine a global spotlight on AlUla’s breathtaking landscape and rich cultural heritage.”
Michael Govan echoes this sentiment, highlighting Turrell’s ability to transform light into an unforgettable artistic experience. For AlUla, this collaboration signals a new chapter in bridging ancient heritage with cutting-edge creativity.
Plan Your Visit: A Cultural Experience You Can’t Miss
Ready to see AlUla in a new light? The James Turrell exhibition runs until April 19, 2025, giving you ample time to experience his masterpieces alongside the broader AlUla Arts Festival. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply seeking a unique escape, this is your chance to explore one of the world’s most exciting cultural destinations.
