Discovering Nabih Saleh: An Ecological and Cultural Gem
This year’s winner of the Abwab initiative, a standout feature of Dubai Design Week, has illuminated the often-overlooked Nabih Saleh, an island in Bahrain that sits at a fascinating crossroads between nature and industry. Located just about three kilometers south of Manama, this island uniquely represents the intricate relationship between the natural landscapes of mangroves and the encroaching industrial zones.
Natural Beauty Meets Industrial Landscape
At Nabih Saleh, the expansive mangroves from the wetlands of Tubli Bay create a stunning backdrop in stark contrast to nearby beige, low-rise structures and the factories of Sitra. The sight of vibrant pink flamingos juxtaposed against the lush greenery highlights this dichotomy, blending the serene with the industrial. However, this juxtaposition raises concerns. As the industrial footprint expands, the native biodiversity of the island is at risk, making Nabih Saleh a compelling case study of adaptation among flora and fauna in urbanized environments.
The Installation: Stories of the Isle and the Inlet
The upcoming installation titled Stories of the Isle and the Inlet aims to capture and reflect on this delicate balance. Unveiled during Dubai Design Week in November, the project is the brainchild of Maryam Aljomairi and Latifa Alkhayat, founders of the US-Bahrain architectural and design platform Maraj. They previously curated the official exhibition for Bahrain at the 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale, showcasing their commitment to blending cultural narratives with architectural expression.
A Forgotten Gem
“Nabih Saleh has always been on the periphery,” Alkhayat notes, emphasizing how those crossing the bridge to Sitra often overlook this ecological jewel. Their artwork seeks to draw attention to the island’s unique intertidal zone, where vibrant life coexists with relentless industrial growth.
Despite the industrial pressures, marine life and avian species have demonstrated incredible resilience. They have persisted through the decades of dredging, land reclamation, and sewage activity that have gradually transformed the landscape. Aljomairi shares insights from their study of historical maps, illustrating how human activity has altered the site’s ecology over time, and highlighting both the threats it faces and the tenacity of its species.
The Heart of Nabih Saleh: Historical and Mythical Significance
Beyond its biodiversity, Nabih Saleh carries a cultural weight. Named after a 14th-century religious figure, its burial site is considered a shrine, steeped in myths and urban legends. Aljomairi recounts tales of misfortune befalling anyone who exploits the island’s resources, adding a layer of narrative depth to the installation.
To express these themes, Alkhayat and Aljomairi opted for a traditional embroidery technique inspired by the thobe al nashal, an ornate women’s garment from the region. This craftsmanship connects the work to the local community, with textile shops in Nabih Saleh contributing to the installation, thereby integrating local knowledge and skills.
A Unique Interactive Experience
Stories of the Isle and the Inlet will feature layered, mesh textiles draped over a steel structure, creating a tunnel-like space. Visitors will walk through, experiencing two sides of Nabih Saleh: one depicting the thriving mangroves, the other showcasing the industrial backdrop. This immersive experience aims to educate participants about the island’s environmental and social contexts.
An Innovative Use of Color
Color plays a crucial role in conveying the installation’s messages. Different hues will denote various aspects of the island’s ecology—representing seasonal migrations or tidal shifts—and encourage deeper exploration of the interconnectivity of these elements. Alkhayat explains how focusing on colors allows visitors to uncover layers of meaning, transforming the installation into a dynamic narrative space.
Myths as a Storytelling Device
Incorporating mythical elements, the installation will feature stylized imagery of birds and animals, like flamingoes with exaggerated features. Alkhayat envisions a space where children can lie beneath this fantastical presentation and discover the myriad ecosystems that make up Nabih Saleh, fostering curiosity and wonder.
Through all these layers, Stories of the Isle and the Inlet seeks to highlight an island that has long been relegated to the margins of public consciousness. It’s more than just an exhibition; it’s a call to initiate conversations about Nabih Saleh’s ecological and cultural narratives and the potential for future stewardship of such landscapes.
Aljomairi emphasizes, “We’re not trying to provide solutions. It’s about starting these conversations.” Their work brilliantly encapsulates the complexities of Nabih Saleh, hoping to inspire change through awareness and engagement.
By focusing on this unique island, Alkhayat and Aljomairi encourage a reconsideration of how we view industrial development and biodiversity, highlighting the possibilities when care and attention are afforded to sites often ignored.
