On February 21, 2023, the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington published Dr. Foley’s piece, “Listen to the artist: U.S. and Saudi Artists Develop Cultural Ties.” In the piece, Foley and Dr. Hatem Alzahrani examine how Ahmed Mater, Abdulnasser Gharem, Alicia Keys, and other artists have shown, through their art, how people of different cultures address common challenges. In particular, they stress that Saudi and U.S. cultural programs provide an opportunity to bridge cultural differences – and showcase artists and performers blending artistic influences from the two countries – while harnessing sources for creativity and innovation.
