Shamsa bint Hamdan Patronizes Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award 2024 Winners Announced

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

Under the esteemed patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF), has announced the winners of the 2024 Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award. This prestigious award, now in its twelfth year, celebrates innovative and environmentally-conscious art projects.

The accolade has been awarded to Sara Farha and Khaled Shalkha, whose project, "Datecrete Bee Hotel," was chosen for its inventive use of sustainable materials. Their work was developed under the mentorship of Dr. Christianna Bonin, Assistant Professor at the College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) at the American University of Sharjah (AUS).

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Sara Farha, an architectural engineer and urban planner, and Khaled Shalkha, a chemical engineer, co-founded Datecrete Studio. Their studio specializes in material innovation, combining material science with design. The "Datecrete Bee Hotel" project features a novel building material made from date pits, which is free from concrete and resin—a testament to their commitment to sustainability and ecological awareness.

The winning project involves the creation of a bee habitat using this innovative material, designed to attract solitary bees. The structure will be installed in a public space for three months, and its interactions with the environment will be documented through film. The final presentation of the artwork will potentially merge the physical sculpture with its filmed documentation, highlighting the relationship between the bees and their new habitat.

Huda Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF, expressed her enthusiasm for the award's continued impact: "The Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award, supported by Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan Al Nahyan and in partnership with NYUAD Art Gallery, has now reached its twelfth edition. This award remains a key supporter of innovation in visual arts and sculpture. Sara Farha and Khaled Shalkha's project is a prime example of the award's mission to foster creativity and sustainability in the arts."

Maya Allison, Executive Director of NYUAD Art Gallery and Chief Curator, praised the winning project: "Datecrete Bee Hotel represents a significant fusion of material innovation and ecological consideration. This project not only aligns with the vision of The Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award but also exemplifies the intersection of art and environmental consciousness."

Emily Doherty, Director of The Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award, highlighted the significance of the award's long-standing tradition: "Celebrating its twelfth edition, the award remains a cornerstone for supporting emerging artists in the UAE. Sara and Khaled’s project demonstrates the evolution of their work and their commitment to professional artistry. We look forward to their eight-month production period, supported by NYUAD Art Gallery and Dr. Christianna Bonin."

The Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award provides a vital platform for UAE-based students and recent graduates, offering them the opportunity to develop and showcase their work. The programme emphasizes professional growth, from initial commission to final exhibition, nurturing the next generation of creative talents in the region.