Villa Hegra launches new residencies to strengthen AlUla’s global arts scene

 

Saudi-French cultural institution in AlUla expands international arts program  

Villa Hegra, the Saudi-French cultural institution in AlUla, is expanding its international arts program with new residency initiatives aimed at supporting emerging filmmakers, designers and visual artists while strengthening creative exchanges between Saudi Arabia and France.

Launched in October 2025 and inaugurated by Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, Villa Hegra is designed as a platform for cross-cultural collaboration spanning visual arts, design, film and the performing arts.

The institution was established through the long-standing cultural partnership between Saudi Arabia and France, with support from the French Agency for AlUla Development (Afalula). Its programs are intended to foster collaboration between international artists and Saudi creatives and artisans, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, skills and artistic practices.

 

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Villa Hegra’s permanent home is set to be designed by renowned French architects Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal. In the meantime, the institution has begun developing its residency portfolio through a series of multidisciplinary programs.

Film and Design Programs

In May 2026, Villa Hegra partnered with Film AlUla and Le Groupe Ouest to launch a scriptwriting residency designed to support emerging filmmakers. The program features two tracks: an international cycle for eight filmmakers from around the world and a national cycle for eight Saudi and MENA-based creators.

Participants take part in development sessions in both Brittany, France, and AlUla, providing opportunities to connect emerging Saudi and regional filmmakers with international creative networks.

A month later, Villa Hegra announced its first tableware-design residency in Champignelles, Burgundy. Developed in collaboration with Campus Mana and supported by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, the program brought together six Saudi female designers to develop Villa Hegra’s first tableware collection.

The residency provides practical training in textiles, woodworking, ceramics and metalwork, encouraging participants to combine Saudi cultural references with contemporary European craftsmanship.

International Artists Join Residency Program

Villa Hegra’s wider residency program includes a number of established and emerging creatives. French designer Paul-Émilieu Marchesseau is the institution’s first designer in residence, where he is focusing on eco-designed modular furniture.

Visual artist Théo Mercier is leading a visual arts residency, while Saudi artist Badr Ali is developing bespoke furniture in collaboration with Swiss design company USM Haller.

The programs form part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to develop its cultural and creative industries under Vision 2030, while establishing AlUla as an international destination for contemporary art and cultural exchange.

By connecting Saudi artists and designers with international practitioners and institutions, Villa Hegra aims to create long-term creative networks and provide emerging talent with access to international expertise and production opportunities.

 

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The expansion of the residency program also reinforces AlUla’s evolving role as a cultural hub, where its historic landscapes and heritage provide a setting for contemporary artistic experimentation and international collaboration.

Source: streamlinefeed.co.ke