Sculpted from the sands of the Mleiha Archaeological Reserve, Karim Tamerji and Elias El Hage’s Desert Relics Installation reimagines ancient artifacts through towering, totemic forms. This permanent artwork, unveiled during the Tanweer Festival in November 2024, is set against the UAE’s rolling dunes and rugged mountains, reflecting the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
Reviving Rammed Earth Architecture
The Desert Relics Installation revives the ancient technique of rammed earth construction, where sand, clay, and water are hand-compressed into durable, sedimentary forms. Drawing on the archaeological heritage of Mleiha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the installation’s twelve modular sculptures mimic the shapes of ancient vessel vases, stones, and even a grand necklace. These forms, inspired by the crafts of early civilizations, showcase pigments and textures that seamlessly blend with the desert landscape.
Desert Relics: A Tribute to the Past
Karim + Elias have consistently explored vernacular architectural techniques on a monumental scale, and this latest creation is no exception. The installation reflects the duo’s dedication to connecting art to its natural surroundings while promoting sustainable and locally-rooted craftsmanship. Their previous works, such as From This Earth in Saudi Arabia and IOTA at Dubai Design Week, echo similar ecological and cultural themes.
The Desert Relics Installation offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the UAE’s past, presenting a modern interpretation of its enduring cultural and environmental legacy.
