Al Ain Oasis (2023) by Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim
These dynamic, colorful tree-like sculptures made of natural and found materials that celebrate the vibrant greenery of Al Ain’s oasis terrains. The artist combined his signature medium of paper-mâché, recycled cardboard, and found objects to create a unique landscape of organic forms. Ibrahim's practice is deeply rooted in a process-based approach, which he views as both experiential and meditative. Through this site-specific installation, he created a profound sense of presence, inviting viewers to experience an encounter with his artistic expression and the UNESCO heritage site of Al Ain oasis. In a departure from his previous works, Ibrahim introduced new elements, adding his symbolic motifs directly onto his biomorphic sculptures, a harmonious integration between his two-dimensional paintings and his three-dimensional sculptures. The commission reflected his deep connection to the local environment, and, consistent with his practice, addressed concerns regarding urbanization's impact on nature. Conceptualized as a gift to Al Ain, the installation is reminiscent of Ibrahim’s distinct land art works, which are inspired by a lifelong relationship with the region's nature. As visitors engaged with the installation, they were encouraged to contemplate local developments in sustainable art, their own connection to their natural surroundings, and ways they could contribute to its preservation. Image Courtesy of the artist and Lawrie Shabibi, Dubai
Site Activated: Al Ain Oasis
Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim
Al Ain Oasis, 2023
Paper-mâché, glue, cardboard wood, paint and resin
Variable dimensions
Artifacts of the Current Moments (2020-2023) by Nujoom Alghanem
This immersive, multi-layered installation by Nujoom Alghanem used ceramics as a central medium alongside other materials to explore the idea of the “current moment.” The work highlighted her multidisciplinary practice—spanning poetry, painting, sound, film, and sculpture—and invited visitors at the fort to experience a quiet, layered narrative. Drawing on themes she had explored over six months, particularly during repeated visits to Al Ain Oasis, Alghanem created objects that echoed archaeological finds, yet were reimagined through a contemporary lens. She used industrial wires, various types of clay, glazes, oxides, and waxes to situate these forms within a modern, regional context. The installation aimed to prompt reflection on the known and unknown, the seen and hidden, and the emotional landscape of the present moment.
Created during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the work also responded to that period as a turning point—one that, for Alghanem, emphasized the need to reconnect with nature and the inner self. “There were hundreds of hours that passed in waiting,” she noted, “and in 2021, I began creating ceramic pieces to address those moments.”
A seven-minute art film with a detached soundtrack accompanied the installation, screened separately to allow for deeper engagement with each element.
The project was supported by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, with production facilities provided by Dubai Culture at Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children.
Site Activated: Al Jahili Fort
Nujoom Alghanem Artifacts of the Current Moments, 2020-2023
Mixed media
Variable dimensions
Artists
Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim
Artist, Artist Commissions in Cultural Sites 2023
Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim
Artist, Artist Commissions in Cultural Sites 2023
Nujoom Alghanem
Artist, Artist Commissions in Cultural Sites 2023
Nujoom Alghanem
Artist, Artist Commissions in Cultural Sites 2023