7 x 4 in
Fann A Porter and The Workshop Dubai are pleased to present In a land of no sheep: Metamorphosis of a Nomadic Tent, an avant-garde, interactive and sustainable installation presented by internationally acclaimed Jordanian food artist and molecular gastronomist, Omar Sartawi.
Sartawi, renowned for his conceptual interpretations and thought-provoking breakdown of texture, culture, science, time and methodical innovation, challenges our view of the world. In his latest creation, In a land of no sheep: Metamorphosis of a Nomadic Tent, Sartawi plays on the concepts of sustainability and luxuryby using modern techniques inspired from ancient food preserving methods to create a new age vegan material; aubergine leather.
Aubergine leather was crafted using aubergine skin masterfully aged to produce a material that is rich in texture. This innovative technique produces different colours on the leather that are not always uniform yet come together to create a piece of natural and sustainable art. Sartawi ensures no waste as he ingeniously transforms aubergine pulp leftover from the creative process into an edible treat for visitors to taste, evoking a physical and intellectual dialogue.
With his installation, Omar embarks on a new endeavor that takes us back in time in a showcase of heritage, while catapulting us into the future of sustainable living and creation, looking at one of the hallmarks of the Arabian Peninsula, a tent.
Fascinated by the concept of Arabian forefathers creating the spaces that would encapsulate their entire lives; provide shelter, warmth, and an arena of hospitality with materials that were at their disposal, trusting them with their children and families for ages.
By creating a hovering yet grounded by a typical peg 2.4 x 1.2m tent, Omar presents two aspects of our being, our future looking selves, and our connection to our roots. Omar’s process carries beyond the exhibition to consider the environmental impact of the tent once the exhibition is over. The tent was designed to bebiodegradable and as a food source for wildlife perpetuating the food cycle and redefining the boundaries of sustainable art.
Alongside the installation, visitors will also view The Duck a l’orange, Omar’s limited edition collectible sidetables made using orange leather, created in collaboration with architect and furniture designer, Karim Sawalha.
“The Workshop Dubai is a space that appreciates creativity in all elements of art and design, especially concepts that are rooted in sustainability. Omar’s practice is thought provoking, unique and he shows great creativity in sustainability repurposing materials. It goes hand in hand with our vision of promoting sustainability through the re-use and up-cycling of vintage furniture. “ - Ghada Kunash, founder of the The Workshop Dubai
About Fann A Porter
Fann A Porter is a contemporary art gallery that represents a diverse selection of emerging international and regional artists.The gallery aims to nurture the burgeoning and dynamic contemporary art scene through quality exhibitions, non-profit events, auctions, and an active community programme.Fann A Porter has locations in Dubai, UAE and Amman, Jordan.
The Dubai gallery is based at The Workshop, a unique inter-disciplinary community space consisting of a cafe, art gallery, sustainable store and design space, providing visitors with a diversified artistic and cultural experience. Bathed in natural sunlight with its garden, The Workshop is located in the heart of Jumeirah in Dubai.
Fann A Porter Amman is located at Manara Arts & Culture, a creative hub and social space in the heart of Jabal Al Lweibdeh.
For more information and for interviews with the artist, please email fann@theworkshopdubai.com