James Turrell to Establish Skyspaces in Saudi Arabia’s Oasis City

In the core of Saudi Arabia, the ancient oasis city of AlUla is poised to present an exceptional land art commission by celebrated artist James Turrell. His latest endeavor for Wadi AlFann, or “Valley of the Arts,” further solidifies AlUla’s rising reputation as a leading contemporary art hub. This ambitious installation, unveiled through renderings during Turrell’s retrospective at the AlUla Arts Festival 2025, features sunken chambers, tunnels, and stairs that provide an immersive landscape experience. Visitors will navigate circular areas sculpted into the sandstone, with these artistic formations harmonizing effortlessly with the natural environment. A prominent element includes a vast sundial that aligns with the valley’s distinctive light quality.

Originating from Arizona, Turrell discovers a sense of familiarity in AlUla’s terrain. “I was very familiar with that kind of landscape and strangely felt at home with doing work there,” he observed. His design for Wadi AlFann will comprise two large Skyspaces and two smaller ones, centered on various sky elements, highlighting his signature use of natural light within art. Noted for his participation in the Light and Space movement, Turrell’s project signifies an evocative fusion of his artistic vision with AlUla’s arid desert atmosphere where clarity and sharpness of light captivate visitors.

The revelation of the actual installation will demand some patience, with completion anticipated in roughly four years. In the meantime, enthusiasts can enjoy the previews, eagerly looking forward to this amalgamation of art and nature to embellish Wadi AlFann.