Edge of Arabia
Edge of Arabia is an independent arts initiative developing the appreciation of contemporary Arab art and culture with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia. As a social enterprise Edge of Arabia is committed to reaching new audiences and improving understanding through touring, non-commercial & free exhibitions, through publications, and through education programs targeting schools & universities. History The initiative was born from a chance encounter in 2003 between British artist, Stephen Stapleton, and Saudi artists, Ahmed Mater and Abdulnasser Gharem, at the Al Meftaha Arts Village in Abha, Saudi Arabia. In January 2013 it opened a permanent space including a gallery and library in Battersea, London, before moving to central London in 2016. World Tour Edge of Arabia officially launched with a major exhibition showcasing 17 artists from Saudi Arabia at London's Brunei Gallery in October 2008. In just over two months the organizers saw more than 13,000 visitors, breaking the record for attendance at the University of London's largest gallery. In June 2009, Edge of Arabia travelled to the 53rd Venice Biennale to the Palazzo Contarini Polignac, featuring the work of eight Saudi contemporary artists, and continued its world tour with an exhibition entitled Grey Borders/Grey Frontiers in Berlin,