The Desert Relics, a land art installation by Karim+Elias, explores the intersection of cultural heritage and sustainable design by using solely desert sand. The project was unveiled during the 2024 Tanweer Festival in Mleiha, a region known for its archaeological significance and collection of ancient artifacts.

Design Concept and Cultural Context
The installation is inspired by Mleiha’s rich historical legacy, particularly its ancient relics. The design visually represents the “unearthing of an artifact” through twelve modular totems, which feature vessel-like forms resembling stacked vases, ancient stones, or ornamental beads. The totems, positioned against a desert mountain backdrop, aim to integrate with the natural and cultural context of the site.

Material Innovation
The Desert Relics is crafted entirely from desert sand, emphasizing the use of locally sourced materials. Each piece is handmade, highlighting traditional craftsmanship methods. This material choice reflects a commitment to sustainability by utilizing local resources that align with the desert’s ecological conditions. The project demonstrates how locally available materials can be employed in large-scale, permanent installations while maintaining durability and aesthetic quality.

Structural and Visual Characteristics
Each totem is unique in form and colour, echoing the diversity found in ancient artifacts. The sculptures’ towering, modular designs create a sense of monumentality while remaining rooted in the environment’s natural palette. This approach combines artistic expression with a focus on materials and craftsmanship, resulting in structures that are both functional and symbolic.

Application for Design Disciplines
The project highlights the potential of natural materials like sand for sustainable design applications, making it relevant for architects, landscape architects, and product designers. It offers a case study in integrating ecological materials with cultural narratives, providing insights into creating large-scale installations that minimize environmental impact. The handmade aspect underscores the importance of traditional skills in contemporary design.

Cultural and Ecological Legacy
The Desert Relics aligns with Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi’s initiative to celebrate Mleiha’s cultural heritage and desert landscapes. Its permanence and reliance on sustainable materials position it as an example of how design can simultaneously preserve history and promote environmentally conscious practices.

Source:ArchDaily
Photos: Elias El Hage via ArchDaily