Of Infinite Intricacy and Artful Replicas

passage through different realities in an artificial land

When entering any space for the first time, the first sight that comes to contact with the eyes either leave a strong impression that will define the quality of the space, or that quality will gradually shifts from one to another through the journey. Although the exploration into that space will lead to unexpected findings, complexity is an important factor that adds dimension, information and sometimes even temptation that invites visitor to be in the space.

Underneath the painted skies and fake palm trees strategically planted along the walkway of Ibn Battuta Mall, 6 different countries are lined up and transforming from one to another as the path leads on. There was a mixture of feelings as the path was taken; one of amazement and admiration on the detailed ornate elements surrounding each rooms. The other was questioning the logic behind these themes while trying to analyze where each was derived from and how that affects the authenticity of each sections. The only certainty was the infinite intricacy that the place offered.

Even when the shops are placed randomly in each chambers, the atmosphere created by the recreation of styles play an important role in creating layers which will convince visitors that the mall has captured the essence of each countries. It may even be said that these chambers are close to being authentic. In the Indian Court, the center was enveloped by arches that gather and became a grand dome. The space was well crafted even though the notion that it is inside the mall is still present, it felt as if our minds could travel to that actual place for a moment.

In another case, it is the narrative that compose a ‘real’ legend in the Lost Chambers in Atlantis, The Palm. The sense of going into a real world started right from the entrance of the Aquarium. The lighting, texture of rock walls and sounds that echo through each one enhance the sensorial experience. There are also fake objects that are carefully crafted and arranged to contribute to the history of this tribe, forming its own believable story. The intricacy in this space can be perceived in the movements of water creatures in the tanks that constantly draw new patterns endlessly.

Authenticity of a place can also be experienced through senses other than visual perception. Ski Dubai illustrates that even with just the temperature and activities in the artificial dome inside a shopping mall can make an experience genuine. So this may imply that it does not depend on the amount of elements that trigger the ‘real’ feeling but more subtly depending on how visitors’ experience synchronize with the elements in those manmade spaces. One that never experienced snow before may accept the environment as authentic immediately compared to those who has experienced actual snow.