Shaping the Future of Museums

Insights on Digitalization and Modern Technology

RIYADH, 20 March 2025 – The Saudi Museums Commission recently hosted a significant open talk, "The Future of Museums in the Era of Digitalization and Modern Technology," providing valuable insights into the transformative impact of technology on the museum sector and the Kingdom's cultural evolution. The discussion, part of the Commission's ongoing series of open talks, was moderated by Eman Zidan, Director of the soon-to-open Red Sea Museum, and featured leading experts Professor Haytham Nawar, Director of the Diriyah Art Futures hub, and Dr. Ahmad Mater, a prominent artist. Their perspectives shaped several key themes crucial for the future of museums:

The Evolution of Media Art in the Kingdom

The discussion highlighted the transformative role of digital technology in shaping artistic expression and museum experiences. Speakers emphasized the internet's critical role in nurturing a new generation of Saudi artists while exploring the challenges of preserving digital art in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Technology as a Medium and Tool

The conversation examined technology's multifaceted role in art, emphasizing its use as a tool for realizing artistic visions. Speakers stressed the importance of considering unique cultural and historical contexts when applying technology to art in the Arab world and the Kingdom.

Defining and Preserving Digital Art

A lively debate ensued regarding the definitions and preservation of digital artworks in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Ahmad Mater stressed the enduring importance of artistic content, stating, "The artistic content is the intellectual essence; the role of the individual—of the thinker, intellectual, and creator of the artwork—remains crucial." This emphasizes the artist's central role, even in the digital age. Meanwhile, Haytham Nawar announced the Diriyah Art Futures’ upcoming exhibition titled Archaeology of New Media Arts in the Arab world, set to inaugurate on April 21st. This initiative underlines the Diriyah Art Futures’ commitment to preserving both the art and the technologies used to create it.

Museums as Dynamic Community Hubs

The discussion underscored the vital role of museums in connecting with their communities and adapting to a digitally driven world. The speakers emphasized the need for museums to create more engaging environments and become less isolated by leveraging technology to foster dialogue and collaboration. By utilizing media as a new tool, museums can restore their connection to society, highlighting opportunities for increased community engagement through innovative technological approaches.

The Future of Art Education

Recognizing the scarcity of specialized programs in modern media arts in the Arab world, speakers highlighted the vital role of the Diriyah Art Futures Centre and its commitment to providing both theoretical and technical training for artists. They emphasized the need for alternative educational models that keep pace with technological advancements and the rapid evolution of information, addressing a critical gap in education within the region.

In this transformative era of digitalization and technological advancement, the Saudi Museums Commission reaffirms its commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of the Kingdom. By prioritizing innovation and fostering community engagement, the Commission seeks to create dynamic, accessible museum experiences that resonate with a diverse range of audiences.

The above press release was provided by the Museums Commission.