A world-premiere of an art installation will take place at Louvre Abu Dhabi.
The museum has announced that Singing Trees will open on February 25.
It is being brought to the Saadiyat Island venue in partnership with Théâtre du Châtelet and was created by London-based digital artists Umberllium.
Highlighting the issue of climate change and the need for urgent action, Singing Trees combines innovative technology, music and interactive elements.
Activating the outdoor area in front of the museum, the palm trees that line the walkway to Louvre Abu Dhabi will be fitted with non-invasive belts that will allow the trees to sing together as a choir and react to visitors as they move closer.
You will also be able to hug the trees to maximise the volume of the music playing in English, Arabic and French.
Songs include Ayyala, a traditional Arabic song that reflects the artistic heritage of the UAE, Greensleeves, a traditional English folk song, and the French Medieval choir song L’Amour de Moy.
The belts on the trees are powered by rechargeable, renewable batteries to reinforce the environmentally-friendly message of the installation.
After Abu Dhabi, it will go on to cities around the world and at the Olympic Games in Paris in 2024.
“Singing Trees speaks to Louvre Abu Dhabi’s mission to provide an educational and innovative space where visitors can engage in dialogues around the issues that affect us all,” Manuel Rabaté, director of Louvre Abu Dhabi.
“Timed to coincide with UAE Innovation Month, the piece explores how technological advances can bring us closer to nature and heighten our understanding of the environment.
“We are grateful to our partners Théâtre du Châtelet and Bloomberg Philanthropies who made this project possible and look forward to seeing Singing Trees travel the world.”
A new medieval exhibition is also set to open at Louvre Abu Dhabi on February 18, displaying 130 artefacts including medieval armour, riding gear and battle equipment, as well as illuminated manuscripts.
Museum entry Dhs63 (adults), Dhs31.5 (ages 13-22), free (under 13). Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, www.louvreabudhabi.ae (600 565 566).
