Exclusive: Farah Abushullaih, Curator and Cultural Leader

Farah Abushullaih, a dedicated curator and cultural leader, has been instrumental in shaping the creative landscape at Ithra, Saudi Arabia’s premier cultural and arts center. With a background in museum anthropology and a passion for storytelling, Farah brings a unique perspective to her work, bridging Saudi heritage with global narratives. Since joining Ithra in 2012, she has overseen numerous exhibitions and initiatives that highlight Saudi and international art, fostering meaningful connections across cultures. Through her vision, Farah has contributed significantly to the Kingdom's cultural transformation, using art to inspire curiosity, cross-cultural dialogue, and a deeper understanding of diverse identities.

What inspired you to pursue a career in museum anthropology, and how has your academic background influenced your work at Ithra?

From a young age, I was captivated by the power of art to tell stories and bridge cultures. Spending time observing, learning, and creating, I was fortunate to have opportunities that nurtured my curiosity for art and culture. My path took a defining turn over a decade ago when I joined the Ithra team, immersing myself fully in the Kingdom’s creative landscape. Working within the world of museum anthropology allows me to explore how cultures are exhibited and interpreted, deepening my commitment to the arts and my passion for presenting Saudi and International cultural narratives in a way that connects people across backgrounds.

Since joining Ithra in 2012, what has been your proudest achievement as a curator and museum leader?

Since becoming part of Ithra over a decade ago, I’ve had the privilege of spearheading a variety of programs and initiatives that have supported the Kingdom’s growing creative sector and fostered cross-cultural engagement. Working alongside my team, I’ve curated and developed numerous local and international exhibitions in collaboration with esteemed institutions. One of my proudest achievements has been contributing to the cultural shift taking place in the Kingdom, both through my personal journey and professional work. Through Ithra, we’ve introduced audiences to new ideas, artists, and creative voices, sparking curiosity and encouraging deep reflections on identity. My work has focused on driving change through strategic partnerships, proactive collaborations, and a commitment to continuous growth.

You’ve led several collaborations with international institutions. How do you select which global artists and exhibitions to bring to Saudi Arabia?

When selecting global artists and exhibitions for Saudi Arabia, I focus on those that resonate with both local audiences and the broader creative community. I’m drawn to collaborations that can spark meaningful connections and conversations, especially those that align with Ithra’s mission to inspire creativity and build cultural bridges. The artists and exhibitions we choose must not only bring diverse perspectives but also offer unique ways to engage with Saudi culture. I believe in curating experiences that invite audiences to see the world through fresh eyes while celebrating our own cultural identity.

Could you tell us more about the challenges and opportunities you encountered while bringing works by renowned artists such as Edvard Munch and Leonardo da Vinci to the Kingdom?

Bringing exhibitions like those of Munch and Da Vinci to the Kingdom presented both challenges and remarkable opportunities. A primary challenge was ensuring that these masterpieces would resonate with local audiences, many of whom had limited exposure to such exhibitions and artists. Our goal was to create a meaningful experience by contextualizing these works in ways that would appeal to Saudi viewers while preserving their global significance. For example, the Landscapes of the Soul exhibition marked the first introduction of Munch’s motifs to the Middle East. We thoughtfully curated it to highlight universal themes like Melancholy, Love, and Despair, which allowed visitors to connect deeply and personally with the art.

The transformation of Saudi Arabia’s art scene over recent years has been tremendous, with public interest expanding rapidly. Hosting such iconic exhibitions has become a way to foster a deepened appreciation for art and create dialogues that bridge cultures, nurturing a new era of artistic engagement in the Kingdom.

In 2021, you introduced the first immersive art exhibition in Saudi Arabia focused on sustainability. What was the inspiration behind this, and how was it received by the public?

Sustainability is an important topic in today’s world, and we saw an opportunity to address it through art. Our goal with the first immersive exhibition in Saudi Arabia focused on sustainability was to spark a conversation around global environmental challenges in a unique way. By presenting these issues through an artistic lens, we aimed to create an experience that would engage audiences emotionally and intellectually, making the topic both accessible and impactful. The public response was encouraging, as many visitors expressed how the exhibition deepened their understanding and interest in sustainability, demonstrating the power of art to inspire awareness and change.

How do you see the role of museums evolving in Saudi Arabia’s creative sector, and what part does Ithra play in that development?

At Ithra, we believe that museums are increasingly becoming vital players in Saudi Arabia’s creative sector. Our exhibitions are designed to align with our core mission: to ignite cultural curiosity, foster knowledge, and inspire creativity through ideas, imagination, and innovation. Overall we serve as a platform for innovation and dialogue, playing a crucial role in representing and connecting with local, regional, and international audiences. By bridging the past and present, as well as tradition and modernity, we strive to provide a more organic and authentic perspective on our region's rich cultural heritage. Ithra is committed to supporting the cultural development of the Kingdom by showcasing diverse artistic expressions and fostering cross-cultural understanding. Through our initiatives, we aim to cultivate a vibrant creative landscape that resonates with the aspirations of our community and contributes to the broader cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia.

Could you elaborate on the Ithra Bridges program and its impact on the local art scene and Saudi artists’ exposure internationally?

The Ithra Bridges program (2016-2019) is a testament to the Ithra’s dedication to connecting Saudi Arabia with the global art community, and it was incredibly exciting to bring Saudi art to international audiences at such an early stage within the evolution of arts in the Kingdom. Bridges introduced the world to the artistic landscape of Saudi Arabia. Through a series of dynamic and impactful exhibitions and programs, this initiative has enabled over 50 Saudi artists to showcase their work abroad, in renowned venues such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum.

It’s been great to see how many of the talents we have supported are now established voices in the art world, representing Saudi creativity on the global stage. This program not only elevated individual artists but also strengthened the Kingdom’s presence in the international art scene, empowering cultural exchange and broadening global perceptions of Saudi art and culture.

What are some key differences you’ve noticed between curating exhibitions for local Saudi audiences versus international ones?

Curating exhibitions for Saudi and international audiences have more similarities than one might expect, which is something I find really inspiring. At the heart of both is a shared curiosity and a desire to connect with art and culture in a meaningful way. Whether in Saudi Arabia or abroad, people are drawn to exhibitions that tell stories, spark emotions, and open doors to new perspectives.

For Saudi audiences, there’s a growing appetite for both celebrating our heritage and exploring global art, which makes it exciting to bring in exhibitions that reflect our culture while connecting us to the world. International audiences, meanwhile, are often just as eager to learn about Saudi culture, and I love curating exhibitions that reveal the complexity and diversity of our art scene, offering them a deeper understanding. In the end, it’s all about creating connections—across cultures, histories, and experiences—so that wherever the exhibition is, visitors come away feeling enriched and connected.

How do you envision Ithra’s role in fostering cross-cultural engagement and supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives?

Ithra wants to act as a cultural hub that promotes creativity, innovation, and dialogue. By showcasing a wide range of artistic expressions and cultural initiatives, Ithra not only highlights the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia but also encourages the exploration of global narratives, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of enhancing cultural exchange, promoting tourism, and diversifying the economy.

What advice would you give to young Saudi curators and artists looking to make a mark in the global art world?

My advice is to stay true to your voice—our culture is incredibly rich, and the world is eager to see it through your unique lens. Be curious, seek out experiences that challenge you, and build connections with artists and curators locally and globally. Every step you take adds to the impact of Saudi art here in the Kingdom and on the world stage.