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V&A Programme

While We Wait

Elias and Yousef Anastas
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16 September 2017

Victoria and Albert Museum
SW7 2RL
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Concrete, Dubai

Concrete is a multi-disciplinary space located on Alserkal Avenue in the Al Quoz district of Dubai. It is the first building in the United Arab Emirates to be completed by the Office for Metropolitan Architecture.

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While We Wait was an immersive installation by Bethlehem-based architects Elias and Yousef Anastas about the cultural claim over nature in Palestine.

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While We Wait by Elias and Yousef Anastas
While We Wait by Elias and Yousef Anastas
While We Wait by Elias and Yousef Anastas
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The towering structure consisted of elements of stone from different regions of Palestine, fading upwards from earthy red to pale limestone. The stone elements were shaped by both innovative and traditional techniques: they were designed on a computer, cut by robots and hand-finished by local artisans.

The process of "stereotomy"; the art of cutting stones so they can be assembled into a larger configuration, enabled the lace-like structure to support itself. Moreover, the gaps between the stones allowed viewers to look out, while evocative sound and video components encouraged them to imagine the installation's eventual natural surroundings.

After being exhibited at the V&A, While We Wait now lives permanently in the Cremisan Valley, where the controversial separation wall is currently being built. In stark contrast to the wall, which divides the Palestinian landscape, this installation, inspired by the valley, will venerate its extreme natural beauty. To activate its function, a cultural programme has been co-created with the local community exploring some of the themes of the installation. It will act as a monument and gathering space owned by the community.

Sponsored by Concrete, Dubai.