Multidisciplinary architecture and design studio T SAKHI Architects unveils WAL(L)TZ, an interactive installation exploring the concept of the wall as a physical and psychological construct, addressing Lebanon’s socio-political climate in recent years. Selected to represent Lebanon as one of this fifth edition’s three national pavilions, the curated project is presented as part of Dubai Design Week’s special project space Abwab, from 11—16 November 2019.

Prompted to reflect on this year’s theme, “Ways of Learning,” and on the way information is shared in their culture, sisters and cofounders Tessa and Tara Sakhi transform the wall into an activator for awareness and sociability. WAL(L)TZ echoes a Lebanese society congested with physical walls, seeded throughout its urban infrastructure and public spaces. Moving beyond its materiality, the project also delves into the wall’s psychological and emotional dimension.

From geographical borders to vestiges of wars and expressions of socio-political and economic apartheid, walls have been used throughout history as tools to control and segregate communities, cities – and countries. Nevertheless, the wall remains the inescapable and main element in architectural endeavours – a precedent which WAL(L)TZ seeks to question.

The pavilion consists of a 15-meter linear wall – one that is overwhelmingly present, yet porous. Seeking to overcome the perception of the rigid structure as a barrier, WAL(L)TZ is crafted in recycled foam, throughout which cracks, “loopholes” and other happenings are playfully interspersed, thereby encouraging audiences to connect and interact through – and in spite of – the wall. The visitor, turned performer, finds himself taking part in a choreographed protest, a reinterpreted “waltz” – one that reflects the voices rising against oppression in Lebanon – and globally – today.