Jax 01

Location: Diriyah Industrial Zone, Riyadh
Client: Ministry of Culture
Exhibition Type: Gallery – Permanent / Exhibition Space – Temporary Layout
Area: Exterior 3500 sqm, Interior 3500 sqm
Completion: December 2019

Vision 2030 is a top priority for the Saudi government. Craft was entrusted with a critical first phase of the Vision’s Quality of Life Initiatives, driving the creation of an exciting, unique cultural and creative district in Riyadh, by designing and constructing the contemporary art exhibition space, “Jax 01.” The space was first used for the “From Within” exhibition, which explored the relationship between architecture and human behavior. The exhibition included contemporary painting, sculpture, video and installation by 27 artists from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Craft selected and partnered with internationally acclaimed architects HWKN on the design of the interior gallery spaces and the exterior exhibit garden – to be used for the display of large-scale sculpture. To realize the design vision, Craft managed all construction works to adapt and renovate an existing industrial building in Riyadh. Further, Craft provided overall project management and ensured all work was completed to a high standard while using predominantly local skill and labor – from art handling specialists and landscape designers, to contractors, skilled artisans and specialist designers responsible for the fit out.