Saudi women making their mark in the creative and cultural fields

JEDDAH: Like all other domains, women in the Kingdom have matched their ambitions and skills in enriching the arts and culture sector. Their contributions are creating meaningful and innovative works with their freedom and creativity.

In recent years, Saudi society has seen a boom in culture and arts, with the Kingdom’s women being a significant part of the growing landscape. The foreign perception of women lacking social capacity in arenas beyond the home has changed drastically through the art and cultural movement.

Ahead of International Women’s Day, which falls on Wednesday, Arab News canvased several women from the art and cultural scenes to acknowledge them and celebrate their participation in shaping the creative prospects of the country.

“Being a female artist in Saudi Arabia at present is very different from before,” said Saudi actress Helda Yassin, who won a Joy Award for favorite rising star in a TV series.

“Whether it’s a woman or man, they are likely to be the same at work, in social life and in media.”

She considers herself lucky to be part of the change happening in the Kingdom and to be among the women in the media promoting Saudi culture.

“The amount of support from family, friends and other artists has helped me grow my talent and be more brilliant in my work,” she said.

“Such unconditional support gives the best motivation and helps me explore other talents in me.”

Saudi writer Hafsa Alkhudairi, whose work mostly revolves around contemporary art, said: “In Saudi Arabia, women have always been culturally recognized as artists and the constant support from the community is also a privilege for the growth.

“Being in the art sector is an interesting experience for me. I meet so many talented