Sabeel Fountains is an Expo 2020 initiative in collaboration with Art Jameel to reimagine the traditional Emirati drinking fountains. Beginning in September 2019 with the Sabeel 2020 open call, winning concepts can now be found across Expo 2020 Dubai.
Expo 2020 Feature
The WellDana Awartani
A glimpse into the significance of water
- Location
- Architect
Dana Awartani
In Islamic architecture, the geometrically tiled ceiling features known as muqarnas have traditionally been seen as bridges to the heavens, their complexity evoking the mysteries of creation. Here, with her drinking fountain, "The Well", Jeddah-based artist Dana Awartani inverts this classic symbol, inviting viewers to contemplate our most elemental resource: water. From a distance, this fountain resembles a stone well. As you fill your water bottle, you will see a kaleidoscopic view of hundreds of handmade tiles. When the water trickles over this intricate network, take a moment to ponder your own connection with this precious resource.
The Well 360
Discover The Well in 360°
An ornamentalfountain
The Well explores the spiritual significance water plays within the Islamic tradition. From its side, Dana Awartani’s fountain looks like a chunk of roughly carved stone, one metre tall and flattened out at its top. Gaze down at the fountain from above, however, and a different story reveals itself.
