‌ArtDayME - The Sultanate of Oman Pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia is presenting an interactive installation titled Zinah. The exhibition will remain open to visitors until Nov. 22.

The project was designed and curated by Omani artist, architect and curator Haitham Al-Busafi. Through the integration of architecture, interactive technologies and elements inspired by Oman’s cultural heritage, he has created a multisensory environment for audiences.

Using real sand sourced from one of Oman’s deserts, the installation invites visitors to engage directly with the space. The presence of actual sand, rather than a symbolic representation of the desert landscape, is one of the work’s defining features.

A suspended silver canopy installed above the space responds to the movement of visitors. Laser sensors embedded throughout the installation capture motion data, which is then transmitted to a computer system. The information is subsequently sent to concealed motors in the ceiling that activate different sections of the metallic structure.

As the structure reacts to human movement, it generates a range of unique and evolving sounds, creating a distinct experience for each visitor. In the process, the sand records traces of movement and becomes part of the artwork’s physical memory.

Commissioned by Oman’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, the project draws inspiration from the tradition of silver horse adornments in Omani culture, transforming it into a participatory environment composed of sand, metal, light, sound and motion.

Zinah combines architecture, sound art, movement and audience participation. Built from simple elements such as sand, metal, light, shadow and sound, the installation creates an immersive experience. Its sound design also explores the acoustic properties of metal to produce a diverse range of sonic effects.

Aligned with the theme In Minor Keys at the 2026 Venice Biennale, the work focuses on a calm and contemplative experience based on the relationship between space and audience, while encouraging connection, sensory engagement and mutual understanding.