The nightsky over the capital of Saudi Arabia becomes illuminated as they kick off their light and art festival, Noor Riyadh.

The 17-day festival which is part of the Riyadh Art Program, is featuring more than 60 artists from 20 countries exhibiting a massive art gallery of lighting displays, sculptures, interactive performances, and outdoor installations, transforming Riyadh into a “gallery without walls,” according to a statement released on Thursday.

“Noor Riyadh is a celebration of light and art on an unparalleled scale. Art is a universal language and light is a symbol of hope and, in these challenging times, it is my hope that this festival shines like a beacon to the world and illuminates our path to a brighter future reflecting our theme of Under One Sky,” said Khaled Al-Hazani, Director of Riyadh Art.

According to Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the Minister of Culture, the vision of the festival is to enrich the daily lives of residents and guests, through art in public places and the local art movement, while encouraging more creativity and innovation.

Alongside locally known Saudi Arabian artists such as Ahmed Mater, Lulwah Al-Homoud, Ayman Zidani, Rashed Al-Shashai and Maha Mallouh, other international artists come to the festival and enrich the experience, including Daniel Buren, Carsten Höller, Lucio Fontana, teamLab, Ilya & Emilia Kabakov, Nancy Holt, Yayoi Kusama, Urs Fischer, Dan Flavin and Robert Wilson. Noor Riyadh additionally composes of workshops, discussions, tours, presentations, volunteer programs, cinematic and musical events, and recreational and educational activities.

The Noor Riyadh light and art festival runs until June 12, 2021. The citywide installation program shall go on from March 18-April 3, 2021. Be sure to check out the complete list of the exhibitions and special events on Noor Riyadh’s official website.