Our missions

-Design of the Program Structure and Content

-Launch of the Open Call and Selection of participants

-Onboarding and Training of the mentors (personalized guidance and theoretical learning)

-Coordination of group Sessions, one-on-one training sessions and Online Creative Program

-Design and implementation of the program’s communication strategy, including the open call, social media campaigns, communication templates, and outreach plan

Launched by the Visual Arts Commission of the Saudi Ministry of Culture, Manifesto developed and delivered the third edition of the Mentorship and Guidance Program, an initiative designed to support the professional development of 60 Saudi-based artists, art writers, and art curators selected through a nationwide open call. The program was conceived within the context of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving cultural landscape, where emerging creative practitioners increasingly require access to professional networks, theoretical knowledge, and international perspectives to strengthen their practices and engage with the global art ecosystem.

Manifesto led the project from conception to delivery, designing the overall structure, educational framework, and participant journey in collaboration with Patrice Chazottes. The team managed the open call, reviewed applications, and conducted interviews to select a diverse cohort representing different regions of the Kingdom, artistic disciplines, career stages, and gender profiles. Manifesto also recruited a network of Saudi and international mentors, carefully matching each participant with professionals whose expertise aligned with their individual aspirations and development needs.

The program combined one-on-one mentorship sessions, group theoretical sessions, and a collaborative online creative program. Through a multidisciplinary roster of mentors—including artists, curators, photographers, producers, and artisans—participants explored a wide range of topics such as arts and traditions, portfolio development, creative industries, and the international art market. Particular attention was given to balancing local cultural realities with international best practices, ensuring that the content remained relevant to the Saudi context while opening pathways to broader global engagement.

The program concluded with an Online Creative Program featuring guest experts and collaborative activities designed to translate learning into practice. To maximize long-term impact, Manifesto also provided dedicated resources and tools, ensuring that the knowledge acquired throughout the program remained meaningful, accessible, and sustainable over time.