In the warm glow of the late afternoon sun, light filters through a maze of PVC pipes assembled to create a modular space that people can interact with. Weeks earlier, this structure nestled within the pomegranate garden of Jabal Akhdhar temporarily resting atop ancient corals, telling the story of a time when the land was submerged underwater—a connection to a past that inspires its very design.
As part of the Rummana Festival, Murjana was carefully dismantled, travelled by truck, and reassembled at the bustling entrance of Dubai’s design district. Amidst the towering glass and steel structures, this artwork stands as a poignant reminder of the natural world’s beauty woven into the fabric of urban life.
Murjana is a beautiful creation that is a product of a collaboration between architect Laith Khalifa and geologist Mohammed Al Kiyumi, both from Muscat. Their vision is drawn from the majestic heights of Jabal Akhdhar, where fossilized corals and vibrant pomegranates coexist. By intertwining these elements in a modular format, they celebrate the unity of nature and craft a narrative that spans various disciplines.
Laith and Mohamed are both happy that they were selected to take part in the 10th Edition of Dubai Design Week, the region's longest-running design week. For Mohammed, it was important to showcase Oman’s natural wonders, suggesting that these fossilized corals not only reveal history but also spark conversations about identity and culture. “Every coral branch has a story of resilience,” he says, highlighting the intricate connections between the patterns found in corals and pomegranate seeds.
Murjana invites viewers to reflect on the rich history of the Arabian Peninsula, where ancient marine life once thrived. The coexistence of corals and pomegranates symbolizes the cyclical essence of life, showcasing how nature intertwines with urban environments.
“By utilizing PVC pipes, we create a bridge between the natural world and the city,” Laith explains, illustrating how inspiration can thrive even in concrete jungles.
As observers engage with the geometric interplay of natural forms, the installation emphasizes the unity between various elements. The sunlight creates a sculptural quality, inviting contemplation of the connections that shape our world.
Laith shared that it was refreshing to have the opportunity to take their installation beyond Jabal Akdhar and show it to an even wider audience.
"For me, in an urban context, I wanted Murjana to act as a bridge between nature and a fast-changing world. By juxtaposing these natural forms, the installation transcends its specific origins, prompting deeper contemplation of the materials, patterns and connections that shape our perception of the world."
Highlighting the talents emerging from Oman, Dubai Design Week Director Natasha Carella said she is particularly proud that artists from neighbouring Oman are delivering world-class installations aligned with what the design week is looking for.
In a separate interview with media, she said “We strive to challenge singular narratives, adding depth to our artistic scene" and is proud that the design week has transformed into a hub for local talent, emphasizing the diverse voices from across the MENA region.
Natasha points to the winner of this year’s Urban Commissions, TukTukDum — the interactive design, inspired by Gulf musical traditions, fosters a unique communal experience that enhances the festival’s offerings.
Through engaging workshops and exhibitions, Dubai Design Week aims to make design accessible to all. “Our mission is to inspire everyone to embrace their potential as designers, regardless of their background,” Natasha affirms, reflecting the collaborative spirit that flows through Murjana—a timeless embodiment of the connection between nature and the urban experience.
Downtown Design: A Celebration of Regional Talent
As one of the key highlights during the Dubai Design Week, Director of Downtown Design, Mette Degn-Christensen, is thrilled to highlight the perfect opportunity for regional talents to showcase their creativity and craftsmanship. “Editions was born from a clear observation of a gap in the market,” she explains. “Years ago, we noticed that while visitors loved attending exhibitions, many were hesitant to purchase the displayed art and design. Our goal with Editions is to bridge that gap, offering unique collectable pieces across various price points.”
Mette emphasizes that Editions isn’t merely about creating an “affordable art fair.” Rather, it's about inviting individuals to embrace the world of collecting. “We want it to feel welcoming and accessible, rather than intimidating,” she adds. The initiative caters to a culturally curious audience, allowing them to appreciate quality craftsmanship without the elitist barriers that often accompany the art world.
Visitors to Dubai Design Week will discover a wealth of engaging installations that epitomize contemporary aesthetics and the innovative spirit of local artisans. “We carefully curate selections that resonate with both the market and our audience, allowing artisans to shine in their creative expressions,” Mette notes. This year’s featured installations provide an immersive experience, reflecting the vibrant creation process inherent in the local design community.
For those eager to participate in this dynamic event, Mette encourages regional talents to seize the opportunity. “We invite local creatives and businesses to reach out to us,” she urges. “Participation is simple – just get in touch through our website, and we’ll assist in tailoring an experience that suits your vision.”
Attendees can explore highlights such as emerging designers and lesser-known brands within the local landscape, offering an authentic glimpse into the region's rich creative diversity. Mette suggests discovering installations by these localized talents, as they are often the most evocative and engaging experiences the event has to offer.
“Whether you're an established designer or an emerging artist, Dubai Design Week is a pivotal platform to expand your horizons,” she emphasizes. “It’s where connections are made; you can engage with industry peers and discover the latest trends that shape the design landscape.”
The events encapsulate the essence of innovation and artistry, showcasing both established and rising talents. Mette captures this sentiment perfectly: “It’s about fostering a community where creativity thrives and everyone is encouraged to be a part of the design dialogue.”
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