Surrealism and Sneakers Meet Under Diriyah’s Desert Skies

A Magritte masterpiece and a Michael Jordan jersey are set to share the spotlight at Sotheby’s first international auction in Saudi Arabia, unfolding at the historic Diriyah site. This event marks a striking blend of Western and Arab creativity, with iconic works by Picasso, Warhol, and Kandinsky mingling with modern Arab pioneers like Louay Kayyali and Samia Halaby. Surrealism takes center stage, reflecting its centennial surge in global auctions, while Magritte’s soaring sales have even outpaced Picasso this year. The auction also nods to the digital age with Refik Anadol’s AI-generated art and celebrates pop culture through coveted sports memorabilia. In a region known for tradition, this gathering of art, tech, and sports signals a new chapter—where the unexpected becomes the main attraction. #SaudiArtScene #Surrealism100 #SothebysDiriyah #Culture