About
Kashida is a foundation for contemporary art and design in Riyadh. We make room for slow looking: exhibitions, residencies, a library and a calendar of talks and workshops, all free or close to it.
How we work
- 01
Fewer, longer
Two seasons a year, long runs, and fewer works on the walls than the walls could hold.
- 02
Free at the door
Exhibitions and the library are free. Workshops cost what their materials cost.
- 03
Artists are paid
Every artist who shows here receives a fee, and residents receive a grant and a stipend.
- 04
Both languages, always
Every label, catalogue and talk is in Arabic and English, written, not machine-made.
The building
A converted warehouse of earth-coloured walls, five halls, two studios and a courtyard. One window runs the whole length of the west wall, low enough to sit beside; the building is named after it.
The halls are lit from above and kept a little cooler than outside. Benches are part of every installation, not an afterthought.
So far
- 2019
Doors open with First Light, a group show of sixteen artists. The first three residents arrive.
- 2020
The library opens to the public, by appointment, with a long table by the window.
- 2022
The learning studio opens; Saturday family days begin.
- 2024
Kashida Editions publishes its first books, starting with the library’s own research.
- 2026
Season seven opens with The Long Line and Salt Ledger.
People
A small team of twenty-two, with technicians, guides and librarians who know the building best.
- DirectorN. Faisal
- Head of exhibitionsLulwa S.
- Head librarianT. Omar
- Residency leadSara K.
- Learning leadAhmad R.
- Visitor teamWrite to hello@kashida.example
Support us
Kashida is kept free by its members, a founding family trust and a few patient partners.