Ahmed Mater, former Director of Misk Art Institute and a renowned artist, medical doctor, and cultural producer, is a leading figure in the regional cultural sector. Known for his commitment to social discourse, Mater leverages art as a tool for societal impact and cultural exchange. Appointed in 2017 as the director of the Misk Art Institute under the Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz (MiSK) Foundation, he established initiatives for cultural diplomacy through exhibitions, regional and international partnerships, and educational programs aimed at fostering a culture of understanding.

Mater has advised prestigious institutions, including the Smithsonian, United Nations, New Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Saudi Film Festival. Currently, he serves as Senior Advisor at the Ministry of Culture in Riyadh, furthering his mission to foster cross-cultural dialogue and mutual understanding.

As the first contemporary Saudi artist to have his work collected by major Western museums, Mater has significantly shaped global perceptions of contemporary Saudi Arabia. He has participated in numerous international biennales and is a prolific author with publications such as Desert of Pharan (2016), Sculptures of Jeddah (2015), and Ahmed Mater (2010). Through his creative and advisory work, he enacts a deep belief in art’s transformative potential, advocating for education and awareness as pillars of cultural development and diplomacy.