Falaj to City Exhibition, 2016

The falaj proposal builds on the content previously explored and exhibited in Milan. Initially envisioned by Cultural Engineering and produced by Case Design in collaboration with Ellen E. Donnelly, The Secret Life of Date Palms was created as an experiential installation for the UAE Pavilion at the Milan World Expo in 2015. Every World Expo has a central theme at its core. For Expo Milano 2015, the theme is: Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life. Each participant country is being asked to address the fundamental question that is so pertinent to our times:

“In the future, will it be possible to ensure sufficient, good, healthy sustainable food for all mankind?”

Six date palm characteristics provide the structure of the exhibition: Form, Fruit, Hydration, Metamorphosis, Shade and Shadow, and Gender. Each investigation draws on Emirati traditions and tacit knowledge to share a narrative that is infused with sensitivity, genuine curiosity, and human inventiveness.

Al falaj, is the Arabic term used to describe the water channel commonly found across the Arabian Peninsula, for irrigation. This system spans along kilometers, as it takes advantage of the groundwater which conveniently gets trapped in the earth’s subsurface. By excavating vertical shafts down into the water table, and horizontal tunnels towards palm plantations, water is emptied out and redirected where it is needed.

This investigation goes beyond documenting and highlighting an authentic agriculture and irrigation system. It further explores a distinct condition where the public and private realms are exchanged and redefined. In essence, the palm plantation and water source are public properties and mark public spaces within an oasis. However, tradition and practice have re-purposed them as locals privatized each zone . Channels pertaining to falaj systems around locals’ houses and palm trees transformed to become private property. The interplay between public and private zones in a conservative culture is fascinating. Such a practice tells tales of a nation so resilient and innovative, yet adamant to their moderate and reserved identity.