In 2013 at the Maraya Art Centre, KHALID SHAFAR unveiled NATURALLY RE-ORIENTED, a site-specific installation inspired by traditional Emirati date farms. The installation used sustainable materials to recreate the tranquillity and sustainability of palm trees, a symbol of resilience across various cultures.

NATURALLY RE-ORIENTED transformed the gallery into a contemplative space, where pathways lined with recycled palm trunks led visitors through a dynamic interaction of light and shadow. The installation integrated wood from recycled construction timber, coconut tree fibres, and henna patterns, emulating the natural canopy of palm fronds to cast serene, intricate shadows.

The coconut fibre walls and henna-inspired ceilings enriched the sensory experience, promoting a deep connection with nature and highlighting the ecological theme of recycling. This setup provided a serene retreat where visitors could meditate and engage socially, reflecting KHALID SHAFAR’s commitment to merging functional design with aesthetic elegance. The experiential installation demonstrated how design could fuse art with practicality, creating spaces that not only soothe but also inspire sustainable interactions and cultural dialogues.

Collaboration Partner: Maraya Art Centre
Location: Maraya Art Centre, Sharjah, UAE
Year: 2013