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Solar-drawing observatory (Large spheres), 2023 - Al Thakhira, Qatar – 2023 - Photo: Ali Faisal Al Anssari, Qatar Museums
Solar-drawing observatory (Large spheres), 2023
Al Thakhira, Qatar – 2023
Photo: Ali Faisal Al Anssari, Qatar Museums
Solar drawing observatory (Large spheres) (Detail) - Al thakhira, Qatar – 2023 - Photo: Ali Faisal Al Anssari, Qatar Museums
Solar drawing observatory (Large spheres) (Detail)
Al thakhira, Qatar – 2023
Photo: Ali Faisal Al Anssari, Qatar Museums
Solar drawing observatory (Large spheres) - Al Thakhira, Qatar – 2023 - Photo: Anders Sune Berg
Solar drawing observatory (Large spheres)
Al Thakhira, Qatar – 2023
Photo: Anders Sune Berg
Solar drawing observatory (Large spheres) - Al Thakhira, Qatar – 2023 - Photo: Anders Sune Berg
Solar drawing observatory (Large spheres)
Al Thakhira, Qatar – 2023
Photo: Anders Sune Berg
Installation view, The curious desert, Drawings from Saltwater-drawing observatory, 2023 and Solar-drawing observatory comprises - National Museum of Qatar, Doha – 2023 - Photo: Anders Sune Berg
Installation view, The curious desert, Drawings from Saltwater-drawing observatory, 2023 and Solar-drawing observatory comprises
National Museum of Qatar, Doha – 2023
Photo: Anders Sune Berg
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The drawing machine at the centre of this pavilion is powered primarily by the sun and by the movement of the planet. Two rows of glass spheres of various sizes are supported on adjustable racks above a sheet of fireproof paper. The glass spheres act as lenses that focus the sunlight into points of intense light that burn marks onto the paper. As the position of the sun in the sky changes in relation to the glass spheres, the light travels across the paper, marking it over the course of the day. A motor beneath the table slowly rotates the paper, enhancing the motion of the earth and lengthening the lines on the page. Upon completion, the drawings are removed and displayed, first within the pavilion and later at the National Museum of Qatar.

Artwork details

Title

Solar-drawing observatory (Large spheres)

Year

2023

Materials

Galvanised steel, textile (beige, anthracite), solar lamp, solar panel, battery, stainless steel, aluminium, fibre board, motor, glass spheres, watercolour paper, incense (natural oud, amber oud, and lavendar oud)