Riyadh residents are being treated to a truly dazzling sight—an astronaut sculpture encrusted with 517 carats of diamonds, now on display at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh

The piece, titled “Frozen with Desire,” was unveiled by renowned American contemporary artist Brendan Murphy, known for his thought-provoking sculptures. The latest addition to his Boonji Spaceman series, the artwork isn’t just about space—it’s about embracing the unknown, a theme that resonates deeply with dreamers, explorers, and creatives alike.

“What fascinates me is who’s inside the suit, what they’re thinking,” Murphy shared

 

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“It’s about the human experience—taking risks, pushing limits, and stepping into something new.”

The unveiling event wasn’t just a visual experience—it was a cultural and culinary affair. Attendees enjoyed a cheese-tasting session led by Philippe Caillouet, a Meilleur Ouvrier de France award recipient, adding another layer of sensory delight to the evening. The fusion of fine art, food, and storytelling created an atmosphere that felt less like an exhibition and more like a gathering of creative minds.

Beyond this showcase, Murphy sees Riyadh as a growing artistic hub and has ambitious plans to contribute to its landscape

With public installations at Riyadh’s new airport and Expo 2030 in the works, as well as an upcoming 1,000 sq. meter immersive art space, his presence in the Kingdom is only just beginning.

As more international artists bring their work to Riyadh, the city’s creative scene is evolving into a space where innovation, culture, and imagination come together—one dazzling sculpture at a time.