BETWEEN SACRED CITIES

art

Art has always been a powerful medium for expressing the complexities of life, faith, and culture. It transcended boundaries, bringing together people from different backgrounds to explore shared experiences and ideas. In the world of contemporary art, some artists found ways to fuse traditional elements with modern sensibilities, creating works that resonated deeply with both the past and the present. One such artist is Imran Qureshi, whose installation, ‘Between Sacred Cities,’ showcased his ability to bridge these two worlds. Unveiled at the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, this monumental piece invited viewers to embark on a journey that blended spirituality, history, and the timeless traditions of the Islamic world.

The Islamic Arts Biennale, in its second edition, served as an important platform for showcasing contemporary Islamic art. Held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the biennale brought together artists from around the world to explore themes of faith, culture, and modernity. As an event that celebrated the richness and diversity of Islamic art, the biennale became a space where contemporary artists engaged with traditional forms while addressing the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. It was in this context that Imran Qureshi’s installation took centre stage, offering a profound exploration of the spiritual journey that connected the sacred cities of Makkah and Madina.

Qureshi’s installation was the largest piece presented at the biennale, situated between the iconic Makkah and Madina pavilions. This strategic placement reflected the deep connection between the two cities, which are the spiritual heart of the Islamic world. The installation reimagined an ancient route that once linked Kufa, Iraq, to Makkah, providing a path for pilgrims traveling to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. This historic route, dotted with resting stations and water sources, served as the inspiration for Qureshi’s vision of an oasis - a place of reflection, rest, and spiritual renewal.

The installation spanned a vast, sand-covered space between the two pavilions, creating an immersive environment that encouraged visitors to engage with the work in a meaningful way. At its core, the installation reinterpreted the concept of an oasis, transforming it into a contemplative garden-like structure.

The central design element was an octagon, a shape that symbolised unity, completeness, and balance. These themes were deeply connected to the pilgrimage journey, which was itself a quest for spiritual completeness and harmony. By using the octagonal form, Qureshi underscored the idea of a harmonious, interconnected world, where spiritual and earthly elements came together.

The use of Zamzam water, one of the most sacred elements in Islam, further deepened the spiritual significance of the installation. The water was central to the concept of purification and renewal, key themes in the Hajj journey. Alongside the water, the lush greenery evoked the serene landscapes of Madina, offering visitors a space to pause, reflect, and connect with profound symbols of spirituality. In this way, ‘Between Sacred Cities’ became a sanctuary where individuals experienced peace and renewal.

Another important aspect of Qureshi’s work was his use of the traditional Char Bagh Garden design, a hallmark of Islamic art. This quadrilateral layout, with its central water channels, was a classic representation of paradise in Islamic art and architecture. The woven strips that symbolised flowing water added a vibrant, dynamic element to the piece, while the surrounding greenery evoked a sense of serenity and life. The zigzagging paths that wound through the garden mirrored the twists and turns of the spiritual journey, encouraging visitors to reflect on the complexities and challenges of their own lives.

Qureshi’s installation also spoke to the enduring relevance of traditional craftsmanship in the modern world. The woven components that made up the structure paid homage to the artisanal techniques that had been passed down through generations. In a time when technology often overshadowed traditional practices, Qureshi’s work served as a reminder of the cultural significance of these techniques and the need to preserve them. Through his installation, Qureshi bridged the past and the present, celebrating the richness of Islamic heritage while engaging with cultural dialogues.

This monumental installation was the result of a collaboration between Qureshi, the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, and curators Muhannad Shono and Joanna Chevallier. Together, they brought Qureshi’s vision to life, creating a space that was as intellectually stimulating as it was visually striking. As one of the leading figures in contemporary Islamic art, Qureshi’s work continued to inspire and challenge audiences around the world. The installation is on display until May 2025, offering an opportunity for visitors to engage with the artwork and experience its profound spiritual and cultural messages.