Egyptian Designer Hassan Fikry’s Installation at Moscow Design Week

At the heart of Moscow Design Week 2024 stands ‘Reflective Nexus’, an evocative art installation by Egyptian architect Hassan Fikry, founder of DABS Architecture and Construction. The piece seamlessly combines the profound symbolism of ancient Egyptian civilisation with the vibrant hues and cultural motifs of Russian heritage. 

At its centre rises a mirror-clad obelisk, an enduring symbol of ancient Egypt, representing the connection between the king's spirit and the sun god. Its reflective surfaces reimagine the surroundings, distorting and merging objects with the environment. This shimmering centerpiece symbolises eternity, drawing from Egypt’s tradition of monumental structures that embody timelessness.

Surrounding the obelisk is a network of luminous fiber-optic strings arranged in a rhythmic linear pattern. These strings visually connect the obelisk to the broader pyramid-shaped form of the installation, fusing ancient tradition with modern technology. 

Extending outward, the glowing threads emanate from the obelisk’s four sides, each rendered in a colour inspired by Russian culture. Red evokes the power and beauty of the Kremlin and Red Square in Moscow. Blue signifies loyalty, faith and wisdom, drawing from Russian folk art. Green symbolizes health, nature and growth, while yellow reflects warmth and joy, like the sunlight. 

Encircling the obelisk are four beige triangular canvases, each embroidered with ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic signs. These represent four keywords: Egypt, Eternity, Originality and Greatness, underscoring the nation’s enduring cultural and architectural legacy.

‘Reflective Nexus’ transcends its role as an art installation, functioning as a nexus of civilizations and a convergence of cultural narratives. Through its interplay of mirrors, light and colour, it invites viewers to reflect on their relationship with space, culture and identity. Each step around the installation offers a new perspective, mirroring not just the physical surroundings but also the internal contemplations of its audience.

Photography Credit: Dabs Egypt