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ArtSaudi Arabia

by Alexandra Mansilla

Connecting the Dots Between Community And Art: Wasl Art Space In Jeddah

14 Mar 2025

"We The Nation of Letters" curated by Huda Abifaris. Photo: Wasl Art Space

In 2023, the cultural landscape of Jeddah — specifically the Al Aziziyah district — was enriched by a new space for artists. But this is more than just a gallery; it is an art space dedicated to fostering connections, collaboration, and creative freedom. It is about giving artists the space to create and share their work with the world, about building partnerships grounded in a shared passion for artistic experiences. The space is called Wasl Art Space, and its very name encapsulates its essence — "Wasl" in Arabic means "to connect".
Founded in 2023 by Hamza Serafi, a visionary pioneer in the Saudi art scene, Wasl Art Space embodies his ongoing commitment to supporting emerging artists and expanding the role of local art within cultural and financial ecosystems. Today, the space is led by Saleh Serafi, its creative director, alongside the Wasl creative team.
"Our main goal is to expand the general public’s exposure to art, spark creativity, encourage conversation, and guide people’s curiosity in their pursuit of exploration," says Saleh Serafi. "We want to nurture the innate human desire to create, to share experiences, thoughts, and ideas —through carefully curated exhibitions and events."
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"States Of Light". Photo: Wasl Art Space

The concept of connection is at the very core of Wasl Art Space — starting with its slogan: "Connecting the dots between community and art." Saleh Serafi explains, "Our slogan comes from our name, ‘Wasl,’ which means ‘to connect.’ Our space is dedicated to centring art, shaping culture, and forging relationships between different points — or dots — within our communities."
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Various exhibitions at Wasl Art Space. Photo: Wasl Art Space

And the entire space reflects this ethos of connectivity and artistic expression. Wasl Art Space is designed as a dynamic ecosystem for creativity — a place that sparks inspiration and encourages experimentation. Its high ceilings and intimate corners create an atmosphere that balances grandeur with introspection.
The main exhibition hall, with its soaring ceilings and mobile walls, offers a flexible, ever-evolving layout, adapting seamlessly to different artistic needs. Meanwhile, the mezzanine level provides a more intimate setting, a quiet retreat for deep reflection and creative contemplation.
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"We The Nation of Letters" curated by Huda Abifaris. Photo: Wasl Art Space

Beyond the indoor space, Wasl extends into a dedicated outdoor area, opening up new possibilities for open-air exhibitions and immersive experiences. This seamless fusion of indoor and outdoor settings creates a fluid, adaptive environment — an ideal playground for artists and innovators alike.
Saleh Serafi: "We are creating a space for collaboration that moves beyond the rigid definitions of traditional institutions. An art space liberates us from the binary constraints of fixed establishments, allowing us to shape and reshape it for a wide range of exhibitions and events. This flexibility empowers us to showcase diverse artistic mediums, accommodate both public and private gatherings, and embrace more experimental projects — while always staying connected to the essence of creative expression."
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"Atmospheric: Objects of Narrative". Photo: Wasl Art Space

And finally — what kind of artists will you find at Wasl? Everyone.
Saleh Serafi adds, "Our space is a platform for artistic expression, open to both emerging and established artists. We don’t just exhibit their work; we help develop their concepts, working together to ensure a thoughtful and impactful outcome."
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