The Sculpture Garden was installed at the HBKU Student Center to bring art into the heart of the student experience. With weaving mimicking geometric shapes frequently found in Arab art, Mexico City artist Jan Hendrix was inspired to create a unique design which has no repeating patterns. His piece, “Helix”, was inspired by the vine covered walls of the Huntington Museum and Botanical Gardens in Pasadena, California.
In relation to the Qatari culture, the pattern looks like the interlocking branches or roots of a Sidra Tree. The Sidra is seen as a “symbol of perseverance and nourishment across the borders of the Arab world.” It has also served as a shelter and a place of gathering.
The Sculpture Garden brings light into the HBKU Student Center throughout day and night. During the day, the sun streams through the branches from different angles as the sun crosses the sky. At night, the branches are lit with colorful and changing patterns. It is truly an oasis at Education City.