Basma Al-Sulaiman is a prominent Saudi Arabian art collector and cultural philanthropist known for her significant contributions to the contemporary art world. Born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Al-Sulaiman developed a deep appreciation for art at an early age, an interest that grew stronger during her international travels and education. She is widely celebrated for her pioneering efforts in establishing cross-cultural connections through art and for amplifying the visibility of Middle Eastern artists on the global stage.
Al-Sulaiman is best known as the founder of BASMOCA (Basma Al-Sulaiman Museum of Contemporary Art), one of the world’s first virtual museums, launched in 2011. Driven by her vision to make art accessible to a wider audience beyond geographical constraints, BASMOCA showcases an eclectic collection that includes both Middle Eastern and international contemporary art. The virtual museum is a testament to her innovative approach, blending technology with art to revolutionize how art collections can be experienced. Visitors to BASMOCA can explore exhibitions and artworks in a digital environment, making it a ground-breaking model at the intersection of art and technology.
Over the years, Al-Sulaiman has become an influential figure in the art community, actively advocating for Middle Eastern artists and fostering dialogue between different cultures through art. Her personal collection is renowned for its diversity, ranging from pieces by emerging regional artists to celebrated international figures. Her keen eye for contemporary trends and commitment to supporting artists has made her a respected voice in the global art market. Her collection has been shown in various prestigious exhibitions worldwide, bringing attention to the rich and dynamic art scene of the Middle East.
Beyond her collecting endeavors, Basma Al-Sulaiman plays an instrumental role in arts patronage. She is a board member of several cultural institutions and has contributed to various initiatives aimed at nurturing creativity and artistic expression in Saudi Arabia. Her influence extends to fostering a new generation of art enthusiasts and creators within the region.
Al-Sulaiman’s work aligns with broader cultural shifts taking place in Saudi Arabia, where art and culture are increasingly recognized as vital components of social and economic development. Her dedication to art transcends traditional boundaries, making her a key figure in shaping the cultural landscape both regionally and internationally. Through her innovative projects and unwavering support for the arts, Basma Al-Sulaiman continues to inspire and transform the art world.
In this episode of the Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam and Basma Al-Sulaiman dive deep into the dynamic role of women in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the remarkable advancements Saudi women are achieving in the arts and cultural spheres. Their discussion also uncovers the latest trends shaping the global art world, with a particular emphasis on the impact of digital art spaces. Basma shares insights into how these spaces are revolutionising art creation, sharing, and experiencing globally, offering new avenues for cultural expression and accessibility.
Visit BASMOCA’s website here.
Explore Basma Al-Sulaiman’s collection here.
