Boxpark is hosting One Nation, a large-scale art takeover that has transformed the urban destination into an open-air gallery celebrating contemporary Emirati creativity.
The month-long programme, running from 28 November through the end of December, brings together a kinetic sculpture by Mattar Bin Lahej and two new permanent murals by Rashid Al Mulla and Noor Al Khamiri.
As Boxpark establishes itself as one of Dubai’s standout spots for art, One Nation kicks off a series of creative events that highlight local talent. The area's unique industrial architecture serves as a backdrop for featured artists who delve into themes of identity, heritage, and the ever-changing cultural scene in the UAE.
Leading the showcase is Mattar Bin Lahej, acclaimed for designing the calligraphy on the façade of the Museum of the Future. His new kinetic sculpture, Constitution, rises between three and six metres in polished stainless steel. It draws inspiration from the UAE Constitution and its defining values, merging sculpture, motion and calligraphic influence into a single reflective form that anchors the takeover.
Sharjah-born artist Rashid Al Mulla contributes ‘Tiny Stories - Big Dreams’, a mural inspired by folklore, surreal imagery and the rhythm of contemporary Emirati life. Palm trees morph into solar panels and camels carry dreamlike symbols from desert landscapes into futuristic horizons, a visual story of a nation that honours its past while imagining its next frontiers.
Architectural engineer and illustrator Noor Al Khamiri adds 'The Spirit Within', a vibrant mural that captures everyday Emirati life through humour and a distinct modern edge. Centred on an Emirati woman surrounded by national motifs and abstract shapes, the piece reflects the coexistence of tradition and innovation through bold colours and a quirky composition.
One Nation invites visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant intersection of heritage and unity alongside contemporary creativity. This experience captures the spirit of One Nation, showcasing a commitment to honouring traditions while innovatively bringing them into the modern world.
Visit: boxpark.ae
Mariam Khawer is a Dubai-based writer and PR professional whose work spans food, art, and travel across the region. When she isn’t chasing deadlines, she’s likely at a gallery opening, testing out a new restaurant, piecing together one of her mixed-media art projects or at home with her four cats, who keep her on her toes.
