2022 Winners & Shortlists

Cultural / Context information for the jury

Dubai is one of the most squeaky-clean cities in the world. Here anything that disturbs its pristine image is considered haram! (means - unaccepted act). Vandalism in Dubai is one such act. It is illegal here to vandalize and can land you in prison for 5 years and a fine of 10,000 AED. Mall of the Emirates again is known to have floors and walls with a mirror-like shine. It is the oldest, most popular, and loved mall of the Emirates (UAE). The clientele here is also crème de la crème, they appreciate and come for the luxurious ambiance of the mall.

Please outline the innovative elements of the work.

The whole stunt was innovative. Vandalizing more than 235,116 square meters of Mall of the Emirates, was innovative brave, and ballsy. Knowing that vandalism in Dubai is illegal and can land you in prison for 5 years along with a fine of 10,000 AED. Leaking the confidential footages of the mall and the stunt, to create buzz and curiosity among people. Using social media to spread the news. Everything was accurately planned to give the desired results. The stunt not just brought people to art but also brought art to people. Mall of the Emirates still adorns some vandalized walls and pillars which are now art pieces.