The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) campus includes public art that reflects the history
of the Middle East and symbolizes the institutional goal of inspiring a
new era of scientific achievement in Saudi Arabia. After an international
competition, Urban Art Projects of Australia coordinated the production of pieces
that stimulate creativity and interaction while promoting KAUST’s focus on collaboration
and exchange:
Breakwater Beacon: This 60-meter structure is a contemporary interpretation
of a lighthouse inspired by ancient Arabic maritime traditions as well as regional
artwork and architecture. The Beacon stands at the entry point of the harbor, rising
from the Red Sea in an elliptical spiral. Its hexagonal concrete building blocks
are each unique, morphing into a patterned geometric structure representing carbon
— a basic building block of life at the molecular level. (Artists: Daniel
Tobin, Matthew Tobin, and Jamie Perrow of Australia.)
Mosque Minaret: Arabic calligraphy forged from stainless steel
lines the exterior of the campus mosque’s sacred minaret, expressing the rich literary
tradition of ancient and contemporary Islamic culture. This elegant work complements
the site’s spirituality and purpose while acknowledging the immeasurable contributions
of Islam to poetry, literature, and Western culture. (Artist: Nja Mahdaoui of
Tunisia.)
Delphinus: Named for the constellation visible in the northern
sky, this piece includes three polished white brass structures positioned throughout
the Seacourt Link based on a drawing by an Arab astronomer more than 1,000 years
ago. The forms are intended to guide pedestrians, thus referencing the contributions
of Arab astronomy to scientific knowledge. (Artist: Donna Marcus of Australia.)
Crescent Moon: The five-meter structure connects to the ancient
science of astronomy while celebrating the important lunar influence on Arabian
culture. The cast bronze and dark gold patina sculpture is positioned at the same
horizontal incline as the beach, rising above the ground on its foundation. (Artist:
Subodh Kerkar of India.)
Cycle and Upstream: Originally constructed of natural bamboo and
rattan materials, Cycle and Upstream are expressed on the KAUST campus in metal—representing
the development from natural to artificial materials that can find their place in
all environments. (Artist: Sopheap Pich of Cambodia.)
Spheres: These three white brass spheres, inspired by the legacy
of 1940s scientist Buckminster Fuller, speak to core tenets of KAUST’s overall mission—
the importance of science and technology, and the capacity to imagine and be inventive.
(Artist: Carsten Höller of Belgium.)
Star Projector: A metaphor for seeing is believing, Star Projector
speaks to humanity’s shared desire for knowledge and comments on the collective
relevance of technology while recognizing the legacy of Arabic scientists in astronomy.
(Artist: Oliver van den Berg of Germany.)
Two Brothers: This bronze, gold patina and Mother of Pearl canoe
depicts the Two Brothers Stars Legend. According to the story, the Duggue Wal and
Thukue Wal stars are two brothers who do not always agree. When the stars are seen
far apart, it is rumored the brothers are fighting and strong, rough winds can be
expected. Gentle winds and calm seas are experienced when the stars are close together.
(Artist: Dennis Nona of Australia.)