Studio Orta

These embroidered works on canvas were created as a result of field research, comissioned by the 2024 Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale in collaboration with botanists from the Centre for Vegetation Cover Development and Combatting Desertification and Atharna. 50 plant species were collected from the desert valley Wadi Hanifah to draw attention to the natural fertility of the valley, faced with the encroachment of the urban development and loss of traditional knowledge. Unique to the harsh environment, the species have developed unique genetic survival tactics to withstand the extreme temperatures and lack of water. Embroidered alongside geometric shapes found in Sadu weaving, they speak a new language of resilience.