Unveiled at the Tanweer Festival in Mleiha Desert, Palm Oasis by Khalid Shafar is a contemplative installation that reimagines the palm tree, one of the UAE’s most enduring symbols. Conceived as a place of rest, reflection, and renewal, it comprises 27 abstract wooden palms set within a vibrant green metal structure, forming a rhythmic canopy that offers shade and recalls the oasis as a space of gathering and solace.

At its foundation lies a profound commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness. The trunks are made from salvaged construction wood, their surfaces etched with traces of use. Splinters, scuffs, and even handwritten markings transform this often discarded material into vessels of memory. Originally part of Shafar’s earlier installation Naturally Re-Oriented (2013) presented at Maraya Art Centre in Sharjah, these reclaimed elements have been reimagined and given a new purpose, merging heritage with contemporary design thinking.

The installation draws on the duality of the word “palm,” evoking both the hand and the tree, a gesture of shelter, care, and welcome. More than a sculptural landscape, Palm Oasis serves as a space for contemplation, urging visitors to pause and connect with both nature and community. It stands as a reflection on environmental responsibility, cultural continuity, and the quiet beauty of shared spaces.

Collaboration Partner: Tanweer Festival
Location: Mleiha Desert – Sharjah, UAE
Year: 2024