Dubai Culture Unveils ‘Deliberate Pauses’ Public Art Installation In Hatta’s Scenic Landscape

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, in partnership with the Supreme Committee for Hatta's Development, has introduced 'Deliberate Pauses', a significant public art installation in Dubai. Created by Emirati artist Shaikha Al Mazrou and commissioned by Alserkal Arts Foundation, this artwork is part of the 'Dubai Public Art' initiative. It aims to transform Dubai into an open-air art gallery, enhancing its cultural presence globally.

Set against Hatta’s Leem Lake, the installation features five reflective red metallic discs along scenic hiking trails. These discs are strategically placed within the rugged Hajar Mountains, serving as visual markers that invite visitors to pause and reflect on their surroundings. The artwork blends bold aesthetics with respect for nature, encouraging a dialogue between past and present.

Curated by Faysal Tabbarah from the American University of Sharjah, the installation highlights Hatta's cultural richness. It invites hikers to engage with Hatta's often-overlooked narratives through its landscapes and oral histories. The project aligns with Hatta's comprehensive development plan and showcases its natural diversity alongside unique tourism experiences.

Hala Badri, Director-General of Dubai Culture, remarked on the significance of 'Deliberate Pauses'. She stated it enriches Dubai’s Public Art Strategy by showcasing Hatta’s diverse heritage. The initiative reflects the Authority’s dedication to empowering local talent and inspiring artists to contribute uniquely to Dubai’s cultural identity.

Shaikha Almazrou emphasised reflection's importance in her work: "In the mountains of Hatta, I pause deliberately—not to find answers, but to question the need for them. Like the spiral, it’s not about moving forward or backwards but about recognising the quiet moments in between. Here, in stillness, you’re invited to reflect, or simply to observe, as the landscape itself offers its own kind of pause."

Faysal Tabbarah commented on public art's role in connecting people with their environment: "Public art amplifies a sense of place and can enable people to understand their environments in ways that are often too subtle to notice without reflection. In trying to amplify the stories of Hatta and Leem Lake, Shaikha Almazrou, Alserkal Arts Foundation, and I worked collaboratively to ensure the artwork amplifies reflections about place, connection, and wonder."

Artist's Background

An accomplished sculptor with a Master of Fine Arts from Chelsea College of Arts (2014), Shaikha Al Mazrou is renowned for her innovative sculptural practices. Her work explores diverse ideas through a deep understanding of materials. Her sculptures have been exhibited at prestigious venues like Jameel Arts Centre in Dubai and London’s Frieze Sculpture exhibition.

This initiative not only enriches Dubai’s visual identity but also celebrates its heritage through immersive artistic experiences. By transforming public spaces into platforms for reflection and engagement, it strengthens Dubai’s global cultural presence while honouring local narratives.

With inputs from WAM