KAUST will host a Modern Saudi Art Exhibit from Arabian Wings (Jan 11-15), an Al-Balad 24 Photography Exhibition featuring work by Marina Kochetyga and Andrea Bachofen (Jan 11-16), and an East African Tingatinga art exhibition (Jan 18-24). The Al-Balad exhibit includes a video by Dr. Lorenzo Pareschi documenting a fire in the historic district. Why it matters: These art exhibits expose the KAUST community to diverse artistic styles and cultural perspectives, fostering cross-cultural understanding.
KAUST is promoting its spring enrichment programs. The promotional material features a Mongolian folk group. Why it matters: While a routine announcement, enrichment programs help KAUST attract talent and contribute to local engagement.
KAUST is hosting a Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) featuring several events. These include a farmers market from January 14-16, an exploration of Asir landscapes and art with lectures and exhibitions from January 19-21, and a final gala on January 21. Why it matters: These events promote community engagement, cultural exchange, and awareness of Saudi heritage and sustainable practices at KAUST.
KAUST will host its first annual Enrichment in the Fall program starting October 17, featuring lectures, films, workshops, concerts, and artworks. The program focuses on the biodiversity and wildlife in the KAUST community, with events aimed at all ages and interests. The enrichment program includes community activities on the weekends of October 17–18 and October 24–25. Why it matters: This program signals KAUST's ongoing commitment to community engagement and education in areas like biodiversity, complementing its established Winter Enrichment Program.
KAUST's Discovery Week featured a gala and awards ceremony. Professor Gilles Lubineau opened the proceedings at the 2017 WEP Final Gala. A Javanese shadow puppet performance of the “Ramayana Epic” was also part of the event. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's commitment to cultural exchange alongside its research activities.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2015 features keynotes by international experts and award winners. Week 2 events include Caltech's Anthony Readhead discussing radio astronomy and Saudi Arabia's potential role, and an exhibition of Tingatinga art from East Africa. Other events cover urban science, polar expeditions, and a multimedia performance called BELLA GAIA. Why it matters: WEP promotes scientific engagement and cultural exchange within KAUST and highlights opportunities for Saudi Arabia in global research fields like radio astronomy.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2015 featured seminars, community events, guest speakers, and interactive exhibits. The program included 112 speakers from various regions and events like BELLA GAIA, a film festival, and photography exhibits. Lectures covered topics like Tingatinga painting and gold exploration in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: Such programs foster knowledge exchange and cultural enrichment within the KAUST community and beyond.
KAUST's Theatre Troupe performed Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap" for KAUST audiences on November 23 and 24. The play, directed by Ph.D. students Amber Siddiqui and Daniel Binham, featured KAUST students and staff. The directors were pleased with the large turnout and plan another production for the spring. Why it matters: Arts and cultural events enrich the KAUST community and provide opportunities for cross-cultural engagement.