France Opens Cultural Center in Saudi Arabia - France Opens Villa Hegra, Cultural Center in Saudi Arabia
France has opened Villa Hegra, a cultural center in Saudi Arabia, modeled after the Villa Medici in Rome. The opening, described as a 'strong political statement' by former French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, will initially showcase works by designer Jean-Michel Othoniel, an exhibition on Auguste Rodin's sculptures, and a performance by dancer Rachid Ouramdane.
The center, headed by Jean-Michel Wilmotte, the French development center's head for Al-Ula, aims to host artists for extended stays, as well as exhibitions and performances. Long-term plans include the construction of a department dedicated to contemporary Saudi Arabian art, in collaboration with the Paris-based Museum Centre Pompidou. This expansion aligns with France's recent growth of its network of cultural institutions, which now includes centers in Japan, the USA, and Spain.
Villa Hegra, a symbol of France's cultural diplomacy, opens its doors with a diverse range of artistic offerings. Its future plans, including the Saudi Arabian art department, promise to further enrich the cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East.
