Venice: The Ministry of Culture announced "A Necessary Fiction: Maps, Art, and Models of Our World," a new exhibition at the Abbazia di San Gregorio in Venice on view from May 6 to November 22, curated by an Arab and international team.

According to Saudi Press Agency, "A Necessary Fiction" is a journey through territories in constant flux, where historical maps-dating from the thirteenth century to the present-serve as a lens through which to examine the enduring need to create models of the world. These models offer mythological visions and imaginative interpretations of scientific inquiry throughout the ages to the present day.

Early-modern maps, loaned from the collections of major global institutions, are placed in conversation with contemporary artworks. First-century CE historical artifacts such as incense burners and eighteenth-century decorative manuscripts from the Arabian Peninsula demonstrate the legacy of trade and cultural interaction that has always shaped this region.

This exhibition is part of the cultural events organized by the Ministry of Culture in Venice, coinciding with the Kingdom's participation in the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, as part of its efforts to promote international cultural exchange as one of the goals of the National Culture Strategy under Saudi Vision 2030.