Imran Qureshi: Between Sacred Cities Installation at the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025

Organised by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, the Islamic Arts Biennale is the only biennale dedicated to the arts of Islamic civilisation. On this occasion, Imran Qureshi was commissioned to create an interactive site-specific installation. Made of hand-woven nylon, the octogonal work spans 450 square metres, enveloping the transitional sand-covered area between the Mecca Pavilion and the Madina Pavilion. The concept draws inspiration from elements of both cities: the holy water of Mecca and the greenery and peacefulness of Madina. Together, these elements form a garden-like installation, symbolising an oasis—a place of pause or stopover between two sacred cities. The layout of the installation is inspired by the traditional Char Bagh garden design, featuring a central cross-shaped water channel and surrounded by greenery. The work is designed to evoke a sense of balance, serenity and reflection, offering visitors a space to connect with the symbolic journey between Mecca and Madina. It also serves as an homage to the experience of Dar El Zubayda in the 14th century, evoking a space where pilgrims once came to rest.