RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Abdulnasser Gharem has exhibited his work in world-class museums and sold pieces at auction for hundreds of thousands of dollars, and is widely considered one of Saudi Arabia’s leading contemporary artists.

You would never know that from his studio in the Saudi capital. Fifteen-foot walls ring the nondescript house, blocking views into the courtyard. There is no sign or name on the door, which is outfitted with a camera to prevent unwelcome visitors. “Even the neighbors don’t know what’s here,” he said with a laugh.

That mix of renown abroad and discretion at home is part of life for an artist and social critic in this intensely conservative country where government control reigns and many people see contemporary art as “haram,” or forbidden, under the kingdom’s austere interpretation of Islam.

But inside the walls, Mr. Gharem, 43, has created an oasis of sorts for a group of young Saudi artists to whom he serves as role model, mentor and sometime financier. This year, he will lead about 20 of the artists on a tour sponsored by a Saudi government cultural center to showcase the country’s art in the United States, with events in Houston, Los Angeles and other cities.