Pieces of broken chinaware renew attractively as mosaic art

25hours Hotel One Central marked the 53rd UAE National Day with a new art installation that celebrated art, sustainability, and community. As part of Ennismore’s global collective of culturally rooted and purpose-driven brands, the hotel, in the ongoing project in collaboration with sister properties across Dubai — Hyde Dubai, SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, SO/ Uptown Dubai and Delano Dubai — collected fragments of broken chinaware from each of them and transformed them into a work of art. Each piece of chinaware-turned-pottery adds a layer of hotel history and community connection, in a thoughtfully designed mosaic curated by World Art Dubai (WAD) in collaboration with local art gallery, Artezaar.com Art Gallery.

The project has been brought to life by Sadaf Aamir, award winning artist and founder of Sculpt Art N Design. She has over 25 years of expertise in working and teaching diverse mediums, including sculptures, paintings, ceramics, marble, fiberglass, and bronze, with her artwork reflecting the rich cultural diversity of the region. The mosaic reimagines pieces from broken mugs, plates, and bottles to form a striking design that reflects Dubai’s diverse culture and the sustainability philosophy.

“Since 25hours Hotel shared the vision for this one-of-a-kind project, we could only think of Sadaf Aamir, who has skillfully captured the essence of the space, drawing inspiration from the colours and textures of the hotel interiors, blending it perfectly with the chinaware pieces,” says Leena V. Kewlani, founder of Artezaar.com Art Gallery. The intricate patterns of the mosaic reflects the atmosphere of the hotel, taking centre stage in its vibrant lobby, she says.

The team behind the artwork.

“By reimagining materials that once served guests across different properties in the UAE, 25hours Hotel One Central has created a tangible and inspiring connection within the broader hospitality community,” Leena notes. “Guests visiting 25hours Hotel One Central will be welcomed not only by a piece of art, but by a story. It’s a story of transformation, of art meeting eco-consciousness. Whether you’re a Dubai local, an art enthusiast, or a traveller passing through, 25hours invites you to step in, look closer, and see sustainability through a new lens.”

The piece is a bold step forward in the mission to make a positive impact on people and communities, she added. Ennismore, she said, places environmental responsibility at the core of its operations. “With a focus on reducing single-use plastics, cutting carbon emissions and supporting local communities and eco-friendly practices across its properties, it continues to set ambitious goals that reflect a deep commitment to sustainability.” “25hours Hotel One Central is once again placing art at the heart of its experience, reinforcing its commitment to creating spaces that are as inspiring as they are welcoming,” said Mehdi Khei, Hotel Manager. “Through unique initiatives like this installation, the hotel continues to bridge the worlds of art, sustainability and hospitality, offering guests a vibrant and meaningful stay.”

25hours Hotel One Central is part of Ennismore, a joint venture with Accor, which holds a majority shareholding. It operates 17 hotels in prime European destinations like Hamburg, Berlin, Paris, Copenhagen and Florence as well as in the international metropolises of Jakarta and Dubai. Sydney, Trieste, Trojena and Porto are among its future destinations. Ennismore was founded in 2011 by entrepreneur Sharan Pasricha and Ennismore and Accor entered a joint venture in 2021. Ennismore comprises three pillars: a lifestyle collective rooted in culture and community; immersive resorts creating havens for rejuvenation and entertainment; and iconic luxury venues pioneering the art of exclusive culinary destinations.

Leena V. Kewlani (left) with Sadaf Aamir.

WAD, which celebrated its 10th edition in 2024, is the region’s largest retail art fair. It brings all forms of art from around the globe for art lovers searching for diverse, accessible and original art from private collectors and connoisseurs to corporate and first-time buyers in search of original art for their homes, businesses, or clients. Featuring +10,000 pieces from around the globe, WAD unites +400 galleries and artists from +65 countries internationally, each with individual perspectives on art. WAD hosts thousands of artwork pieces from renowned galleries and solo artists under one roof, at Dubai World Trade Centre.

WAD visitors have the opportunity to explore an accessible world of art through paintings, prints, sculptures, and street and digital art, from emerging artists, pop-art icons and fashion art disrupters, to experimental expressionists and fine art and photography practitioners. Founded in 2019 by Leena V. Kewlani, Artezaar.com is an online UAE based art gallery with a mandate for empowering UAE artists, supporting the local art community. It has grown to feature nearly 2,000 artworks, including paintings, digital prints, photography, and home décor. The collection spans a diverse range of styles, from abstract and nature-themed works to portraits, pop art, Arabic calligraphy, and more.

Artezaar.com has received several prestigious awards, including the Best Art Gallery Collective at World Art Dubai 2024, and the MEA Markets’ UAE Business Award for Best Online Art Gallery in 2023 and 2024. Artezaar.com has been a partner of WAD for five consecutive years. “Hotels are increasingly blurring the worlds of art and hospitality by displaying museum-quality works and supporting new talent,” opines roadbook.com. “Dining alongside Salvador Dalí or beneath a Picasso, or sharing a room with Andy Warhol – often, the art in a hotel can rival that of the city’s finest museums.”