Rhizome is an artwork that links the Saudi capital Riyadh with the Belgian city of Bruges and sheds light on the link between light and the trees of the Palm Oasis. The idea was conceptualized by the Belgian duo Tom and Lien Dekyvere, and the artwork was put on display at the 2021 Noor Riyadh festival.
Through their artwork, Rhizome, a web of hundreds of meters of illuminated rope that connects the trees of the Palm Oasis, the Belgian duo have created a symbol of natural homes and highlighted the interconnections and divergence of contemporary society.
Tom Dekyvere explained the concept, saying: "The artwork is based on the concept of the simultaneous interconnections and divergence in society, because we humans are connected in the same way the roots of the tree intertwine below ground. Sound and light interact harmoniously with nature, reflecting an aesthetic that allows us to contemplate the embodiment of art around us."
"I chose Riyadh as the site for our artwork as it reminded me of Bruges, where Lien and I used to live, and this in itself is a form of interconnection and partnership between the cities of Riyadh and Bruges. Our work centers around the trees of the Palm Oasis and aims to reflect that captivating interactions between nature with light."
Since 2012, Tom and Lien Dekyvere have amazed audiences worldwide at public events and exhibitions with their light art. They called on the visitors during the event "to take a moment and reflect on the captivating connection between humanity and nature."
The Noor Riyadh festival, which runs from March 18 till April 3, is part of the Riyadh Art project, aiming to transform Riyadh into an open-air gallery without walls by setting up more than 1,000 art shows around the city.
The festival is one of the largest of its kind and has attracted more than 60 internationally renowned light artists from across the globe.
