Architecture photography of the Portal Gate at Expo 2020 by Gerry O’Leary
Expo 2020 ran at Dubai Expo City from 1 October 2021 – 31 March 2022. I was lucky enough to be selected as an architectural photographer for several pavilions on the site and gained exclusive access to photograph many of the cool architectural structures created for the event.
When the news was released that Dubai had won the bid to host the 34th World Expo in 2020, I was thrilled. I had been living in Dubai for half a decade by then, constantly busy shooting architectural photography projects as the city built skyward. Innovation is a defining element of the culture here and I knew that the city would deliver an unforgettable exhibition.
Fast forward to 2021 (let’s gloss over the reason for its delay), Expo 2020 Dubai was unveiled to the public. Even before its Portal Gate (pictured above) was open, I had the opportunity to gain entry to photograph some of the incredible structures that graced each pavilion. Although it’s very difficult to pick favourites, I’ve picked five to showcase on the blog today.
Lumi – The Finnish Pavilion
The team at JKMM Architects had the aim of bringing “a fragment of Finnish nature to the UAE”. That’s why the façade is white, to reflect the first snowfall that blankets the Finnish landscapes when winter arrives.
The building was designed to resemble an Arabic tent and its opening. I love the way the two cultures meet in this simple yet sensational design. Hospitality is such a key element in both the UAE and Finland, so the connection is highlighted in this beautiful form.
Éire – The Irish Pavilion
From the country of my birth to the city I call home, there’s a strong connection for me. I really appreciated the way the OPW (Office of Public Works – government architects) drew from both classical Western and Islamic architecture to create this beautiful pavilion.
When researching the different traditions, they discovered that in both Ireland and across the Middle East, cloisters and courtyards were common – places where people could gather while protected from the elements. They also found a commonality in using primary geometric shapes, which can be seen on the pavilion’s exterior.
It’s a tribute to both cultures and one which obviously resounds profoundly with me.
Seeds for the Future – Azerbaijan Pavilion
Simmetrico Architects had their vision of the future in mind when they created the pavilion for Azerbaijan. The leaf and tree were their inspiration behind the project.
The leaf-shaped roof is intended to symbolize the endless energy process between leaves and the sun, and its air cushion cools high temperatures.
Their design appears like a tree blooming from the ground, and within its embrace, visitors can find shelter. I particularly liked the VIP area where you could see the whole Expo site from a cool enclosure.
UAE Pavilion by Santiago Calatrava
The famed Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava won a seven-month design competition to design the UAE pavilion. The striking wings, designed to look like those of the UAE’s national bird – the falcon, are a “symbolic interpretation of the flow of movement”.
Not only is it an aesthetically stunning piece of architecture, but it is also sustainably designed with photovoltaic panels made in the UAE that absorb sunlight when the wings are open and protect the structure from rain and sand when they are closed.
I’ve been to Expo City several times to photograph this pavilion and I’m still in awe of it.
Al Saliya – Iraq Pavilion
The first time the Iraq Pavilion came into my view, I thought “Wow”. The design is inspired by a fishing net – a symbol of wealth, wisdom and goodness in Mesopotamian culture. Designed by the trailblazing Raya Ani, it is a breathtaking structure that reflects Iraq’s past, present and future in one remarkable design.
The vibrant colours of the mesh aren’t simply to impress – they are taken from a map displaying Iraq’s potential in photovoltaics. Natural light and air flows into the venue through small openings, though it is still in the shade, demonstrating its sustainability capabilities.
Having photographed some of the world’s most amazing architecture for over 30 years, Expo 2020 landing in the city I call home was a gift. I’m delighted that I was entrusted to photograph these cool designs and whenever I need a dash of inspiration, I can hop on the Dubai Metro for a visit to this iconic city.
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