Overview:
In this project, I had the privilege of leading the comprehensive exhibition design for “Baghdad: Eye’s Delight” on behalf of Opera Amsterdam. The exhibition led participants to explore Baghdad’s historical importance during the Abbasid rule, its industrial development in the 20th century, and the enduring resilience of its cosmopolitan population and traditions despite the challenges of war and destruction. The primary objective was to take visitors on an immersive journey through centuries, highlighting Baghdad’s significance as a city of power, scholarship, and prosperity. The exhibition was divided into five sections, each exploring a unique facet of Baghdad’s rich history:
City of Peace:
The exhibition commenced by delving into the origins of Baghdad as the “City of Peace” (Madinat al-Salam). Founded by Abbasid caliph al-Mansur, this circular city became the epicenter of an empire and a testament to his vision. Extensive development of marshy lands outside the city accommodated its growing population. It stood as a symbol of prosperity and a marvel of its era.
City of Palaces:
The exhibition commenced by delving into the origins of Baghdad as the “City of Peace” (Madinat al-Salam). Founded by Abbasid caliph al-Mansur, this circular city became the epicenter of an empire and a testament to his vision. Extensive development of marshy lands outside the city accommodated its growing population. It stood as a symbol of prosperity and a marvel of its era.
City of Knowledge:
Baghdad’s intellectual renaissance during the Abbasid era was celebrated in the “City of Knowledge” section. The caliphs’ unwavering support for scholarship transformed the city into an intellectual powerhouse. Renowned institutions and libraries, such as the House of Wisdom (Bayt al-Hikma), drew students and scholars from across the Islamic world. This era also witnessed the rise of a written scholarly culture, facilitated by the introduction of paper from China and the adoption of a more legible Arabic writing style called naskh. The culture of learning thrives today, with contemporary calligraphers, students, and scholars inspired by Baghdad’s rich intellectual heritage.
City of Markets and Commerce:
The exhibition then explored how Baghdad’s flourishing economy contributed to its cultural and intellectual vibrancy in the “City of Markets and Commerce” section. Nestled in fertile lands between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, Baghdad benefited from an intricate network of canals engineered by the Abbasid caliphs to irrigate surrounding farmlands. These fertile lands supplied food to the capital and the region. Trade, another crucial revenue source, thrived as the Abbasids developed the port city of Basra on the Arabian Gulf and fostered diplomatic ties with distant rulers in China, Central Asia, and Europe. Baghdad’s markets attracted merchants from around the world in search of luxury goods. The 20th century ushered in another era of prosperity, driven by the discovery of oil, which fueled industrial development, modernized infrastructure, and established transport links connecting Baghdad to Europe and Asia.
City of the People:
Finally, the exhibition paid homage to Baghdad’s diverse and resilient population in the “City of the People” section. Throughout its history, Baghdad has been a melting pot of ethnic and religious backgrounds. Sunni and Shi’a Muslims, Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians coexisted, contributing to the city’s cosmopolitan character. From marketplaces and coffee shops to libraries and large religious or social gatherings, these communities enriched Baghdad’s cultural and social tapestry. Despite a tumultuous history of floods, plagues, political struggles, invasions, and wars, Baghdad has remained a home to residents from varied backgrounds. With over 7.6 million inhabitants today, it stands as the second-largest capital in the Arab world.
Project Challenge:
The primary challenge was to create an engaging and immersive exhibition design that could transport visitors through time, offering an authentic and profound understanding of Baghdad’s history while effectively conveying its diverse narratives.
Client:
Opera Amsterdam, a renowned cultural institution dedicated to promoting the arts and cultural diversity through innovative exhibitions and performances.
Scope:
The project scope encompassed the entire graphics design for the exhibition, including layout, color palette, typography, and the seamless integration of various media such as historical photographs, contemporary videos, and artifacts. The timeline spanned six months, facilitating meticulous planning, design iterations, and collaboration with both the client and exhibition curators.
Design Principles:
The design approach for “Baghdad: Eye’s Delight” was guided by several fundamental principles, with each section tailored to reflect the specific historical context and theme.
Design Execution:
The visual design seamlessly blended elements inspired by Baghdad’s historical and contemporary aesthetics in each section. The color palettes, typography, and visual elements were meticulously curated to evoke the spirit of the respective era and theme.
Iterations:
The iterative design process was instrumental in capturing the essence of each section, allowing for refinements based on feedback and insights to create a captivating exhibition.
Results & Impact:
Upon the exhibition’s unveiling, “Baghdad: Eye’s Delight” garnered praise for its captivating design and immersive storytelling. Visitors not only gained knowledge about Baghdad’s history but also formed a deep emotional connection with its journey through time. The exhibition attracted a diverse audience, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation.
