Ayman Yossri Daydban at World Expo, 2025

At World Expo 2025, the Saudi Arabia Pavilion became a vibrant platform for creative exchange, brought to life through a programme of artist residencies and cultural experiences. Produced by DDX in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, the programme evolved over six months, introducing visitors to a changing lineup of Saudi artists, exhibitions, musicians and live performances. As part of this programme, Saudi-Palestinian artist Ayman Yossri Daydban presented The Watcher, exploring themes of belonging, citizenship and cultural inheritance through his personal history and dual identity.

Inspired by his own name, which means “watchman,” Daydban adopted the role of observer, examining how meaning is shaped through images, language and everyday objects. From repurposed tissue boxes to comic-strip-style flags, his work reimagined symbols of mass culture as intimate tools of self-discovery.

During his residency, Daydban experimented with light and repeatedly reconfigured his interactive Treehouse structure, inspired by Jeddah, to explore the relationship between self and home, and the space between the personal and the public. His live sessions encouraged audience interaction, allowing visitors to witness the evolution of his work and engage directly with his creative process.

With DDX’s production and support, The Watcher transformed the Visual Arts Studio into a participatory environment that combined performance, installation and cultural reflection, creating an engaging and immersive experience for visitors.