The Paris-based contemporary artist on her Miami Art Week collaboration with Acura

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Interview: Dalkhafine’s Surreal Road to Scope Art Fair

The Paris-based contemporary artist on her Miami Art Week collaboration with Acura

Mike Tommasiello

13 December 2024

This Miami Art Week, Acura partnered with Paris-based contemporary artist Dalkhafine, whose distinct blend of abstraction and surrealism became the perfect backdrop for their new ADX all-electric car right on the sands of South Beach—in front of the Scope Art Fair. We sat down with Dalkhafine to talk about her trippy, out-of-this-world mural, which she created specifically for the event. 

 What drew you to partner with Acura for this year’s Scope Art Fair at Miami Art Week?

I was invited by Acura to create an art installation to showcase their new ADX all-electric vehicle. Collaborating with a car brand has been a long-time dream of mine: I’ve always loved the world of cars, the thrill of speed and Formula 1. So when this opportunity came along, I didn’t hesitate for a second to say yes!

Can you tell us about the creative process behind your installation for the fair?

I envisioned an artistic installation that invites viewers to discover the new ADX through a playful and immersive journey. The experience begins by following a “fantasy road,” shifting between vibrant lines, intricate patterns, and stretches that resemble a real road—elements inspired by the dynamic energy of highways and the thrill of F1 racing. This path guides visitors around the cars, encouraging exploration and discovery, before culminating in front of a mural that marks the journey’s end. The arches appear as a frame, inviting the viewer to contemplate this endless perspective and the setting sun. All around, windows connected by clouds illustrate the interdependence of every element, symbolizing a dreamlike world where everything is linked. The woman, gazing into the distance, embodies this deep connection with nature and the universe. The arches are not just a visual frame; they also become an interactive space, offering a unique experience, much like an artistic photo booth.

How does showcasing your work at SCOPE elevate your approach to blending art and technology?

SCOPE is an iconic event, always ahead of its time. It’s a place where traditional paintings coexist with groundbreaking art installations and innovative digital creations. The energy and creativity at the event are incredibly inspiring, and I left feeling recharged with fresh ideas for future projects.

Were there any specific challenges or breakthroughs in collaborating with a car brand for an art fair?

Every project feels like stepping into a new playground, and this one was no exception. Collaborating with a car brand brought its own unique set of opportunities, which I found incredibly exciting. The real “challenge” was more about aligning my artistic vision with Acura’s brand ethos and creating something that felt authentic to both. This process pushed me to think outside the box and embrace new ideas, which I love.

One breakthrough was seeing how well the worlds of art and automotive design could intersect. Acura gave me the freedom to infuse my style while celebrating their innovative spirit, which was truly rewarding. I particularly enjoyed designing elements like the car wraps, which allowed me to merge my graphic universe with their cutting-edge vehicle design. This collaboration felt like a perfect fusion of creativity and technology, and I had an absolute blast bringing it to life!

How does the setting of Scope Art Fair influence how audiences perceive your work?

Scope is an incredible event showcasing a wealth of talent. Being part of it was a dream come true. It’s a fantastic platform to share your work and connect with people. I received so much positive feedback, it’s truly heartwarming. Projects like this feed both my creativity and my everyday life.

If you had to describe your installation in three words, what would they be and why?

I’d choose journey, graphic and fun. 

The installation is all about taking visitors on a visual journey. From the moment they step onto the “fantastic road,” they’re invited to explore, discover and immerse themselves in a playful narrative. It’s not just about observing the artwork; it’s about engaging with it, moving through the space, and feeling part of the story. The word graphic reflects the bold visual language I used: vivid colors, patterns and dynamic lines inspired by the energy of roads, racing and the movement we associate with cars. And finally, fun captures the essence of what I aim to create. Art should be accessible and enjoyable, and I wanted this installation to spark joy and curiosity. The photo booth setup with the mural and arches was designed for interaction, and seeing people take photos, laugh, and share their moments made it all worthwhile. In essence, this installation celebrates movement, creativity, and connection, bringing the dynamic world of automotive design into an imaginative and engaging artistic space.

·What role does mobility or movement play in your artwork, especially in this collaboration?

Movement is central to my life, I’m constantly traveling between Paris and Montreal. My journeys have always shaped my creativity, which may be why I feel such a connection to the world of automobiles. Cars represent constant motion, freedom and the ability to explore new places. That resonates deeply with my philosophy of always moving forward.

How do partnerships like this one shape the future of art in commercial and public spaces?

These collaborations are transforming how art is experienced in public and commercial spaces. Traditionally, art was static and isolated, but now we’re creating dynamic, immersive environments that engage audiences in new ways. Brands are beginning to understand the power of art to connect on a deeper level, which makes these partnerships exciting! 360-degree projects are especially interesting because they go beyond visuals to fully transform a space. From murals and car wraps to immersive installations, these elements combine to create something playful, impactful and engaging. By breaking down the boundaries between art and daily life, these projects make art more accessible and relevant, offering an experience that is both interactive and inspiring.

What was the most unexpected moment during the creation of this project?

I also designed car wraps for two vehicles: the ADX and the ZDX, showcased outside the Loews Hotel in Miami. When I saw them for the first time, I was so moved I almost cried. Wrapping a car in my designs has been a dream of mine for so long, and seeing it come to life was surreal. Often, we work in front of our screens, so seeing my designs brought to life was truly exceptional. The execution was flawless, it was so incredible to see my vision so perfectly respected!

Looking beyond Miami Art Week, how do you see yourself further blending art, design, and innovation?

I want to keep creating immersive art installations that blend murals, 3D structures and floor designs. Inviting people into my universe and offering them a memorable experience is something I’m deeply passionate about. I see this medium as a perfect playground for exploring new ideas, like combining art installations with video projections to push the boundaries of design and innovation even further.

Dezeen School Shows: an AI-powered companion gadget for people with dementia is included in Dezeen’s latest school show by students at University of New South Wales Sydney.

Also included is a project exploring possibilities of 3D printing and another aiming to increase the ecological health of a river.

University of New South Wales Sydney

Institution: UNSW Sydney
School: School of the Built Environment
Courses: Master Landscape Architecture, Bachelor Landscape Architecture (Honours), Bachelor of Design (Computational Design) and Bachelor of Industrial Design (Honours)
Tutors: Dr Sara Padgett Kjaersgaard, Dr Nicole Gardner, Associate Professor Mariano Ramirez, Associate Professor Bernadette Hardy, Linden Crane, Dr Andrew Mackenzie, Simon Lloyd, Dr Melissa Cate Christ, Dr Mike Harris, Patrick Franklyn, Professor M Hank Haeusler, Charlotte Firth, Hareem Nadeem, Stephen Goddard, Dr Cristina Ramos Jaime, Professor Oya Demirbilek, Danielah Martinez, Dr Christian Tietz and Gonzalo Portas

School statement:

“At UNSW Built Environment we focus on architecture and design at every scale, from industrial-designed products to the architectural design of buildings and landscapes, up to urban and regional planning and policy.

“We place emphasis on sustainable design approaches that embrace circular thinking and adaptive reuse to achieve resilient and low carbon outcomes. Our social-impact design ethos seeks to meet the diverse needs of different groups, creating landscapes, buildings and products that are healthy and inclusive. We also equip students to use advanced digital tools and data, allowing them to make evidence-based decisions and develop smart ways of analysing and designing our world.

“Many of our student projects engage with ‘Country’, which Associate Professor Bernadette (B) Hardy, a traditional owner of Dharug and Gamilaraay descent, redefines for First Nations people as a profound union of the physical and spiritual, deeply connected to the world’s oldest living culture.

“Studio design in the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture shown below is co-led by Associate Professor Hardy and Country as teacher (Dharug, Bidgigal, Gadigal, Wangal). Students and staff have been entrusted with Aboriginal knowledge and culture (referred to as Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property and Cultural Law/Lore) and permission is required for its reproduction.

“Overall, at UNSW Built Environment we aim to develop skilled and enquiring graduates who can positively engage, adapt and shape our cities for the benefit of all people and life on earth.”

AMIKO: A caring companion for dementia by Zihan Eleanor Tang

“AMIKO is an AI-powered companion designed to support older adults with dementia, offering emotional recognition, safety monitoring and seamless connectivity.

“By detecting emotions and delivering empathetic feedback, AMIKO fosters meaningful connections through warm interactions and lighting cues.

“This conceptual ecosystem includes AMIKI satellite units for safety reminders and the AMIKON app, enabling caregivers to receive real-time updates and stay connected.

“Built with durability and medical compliance in mind, AMIKO redefines dementia care by transforming daily routines into moments of comfort and connection.”

Student: Zihan Eleanor Tang
Course: Bachelor of Industrial Design (Honours)
Email: zihantang.29[at]gmail.com
Tutors: Oya Demirbilek and Christian Tietz

NeuroEase: Non-invasive migraine relief by Nitish Ramesh

“NeuroEase offers a non-medicinal, non-invasive solution for managing migraines using advanced Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) technology.

“This wearable concept provides fast, effective relief, empowering users to treat migraines anytime, anywhere without relying on pharmaceuticals.

“Designed as a complete treatment package, NeuroEase includes a charging dock, electrode gel and tissues for cleaning, making it a portable and user-friendly system.

“Its sleek, empathetic design combines comfort, functionality and adjustable settings to ensure a tailored experience.”

Student: Nitish Ramesh
Course: Bachelor of Industrial Design (Honours)
Email: nitish.ramesh2003[at]gmail.com
Tutors: Gonzalo Portas, Danielah Martinez and Christian Tietz

Ripple Rails by Olivia Xiao

“Ripple Rails is an urban technology design project that explores creative uses for smart technologies by leveraging the affordances of physical computing and engaging with principles of interaction design to create safer commuting conditions for school age pedestrians and cyclists.

“The site-specific design uses sensors to collect data about commuting behaviour and to drive real-time responsive actuation including movement and LED lighting to help manage the safe flow of commuters through a spatially constrained site.”

Student: Olivia Xiao
Course: Bachelor of Design (Computational Design)
Email: o.xiao[at]student.unsw.edu.au
Tutors: M Hank Haeusler and Hareem Nadeem

The Need for Speed by Louis Lamont

“The Need for Speed: An investigation into parametric velocity control to enable variable extrusion rate on large-scale pellet-based robotic printing is a computational design research project that investigates workflows to enhance accuracy and achieve uniform layer thicker for multi-planar robotic printing.”

Student: Louis Lamont
Course: Bachelor of Design (Computational Design)
Email: louis.lamont[at]student.unsw.edu.au
Tutors: Nicole Gardner, Stephen Goddard and Cristina Ramos Jaime

Timeless: How can we weave stories of Moore Park that connect diverse users to the landscape? by Hamnah Maqsood

“A deeper understanding of indigenous knowledge systems and their profound connection with country is essential in fostering place-based relationships with landscapes.

“The research proposal explores the ongoing storied process of indigenous origins, Moore Park’s history and future users, with the aim of being woven into the green fabric, to address issues of biodiversity loss for migratory bird habitats and the absence of place-based connections.

“The design of organic structures and pathways engage students, locals and indigenous people in programmes that elevate sensory connections and celebrate indigenous practices of weaving.”

Student: Hamnah Maqsood
Course: Master Landscape Architecture
Email: hamnah2001[at]hotmail.com
Tutors: Linden Crane, Andrew Mackenzie, Simon Lloyd and Melissa Cate Christ

Symbiosis and Co-living by Shuwen Li

“The Goolay’yari (Cooks) River, has a rich, continuing history with the Dharug People of the Sydney area.

“Once populated with an expansive array of more-than-human-kin, such as the Wurridjal (mullet), the river has been facing challenges since the middle of the 20th century.

“Conflicts between engineered concrete embankments for flood mitigation and its natural swampy, mangrove rich edges, alongside significant industrial pollution and runoff, have drastically reduced the amount of habitat that sustains aquatic life.

“The project seeks to establish a series of adaptive nature-based solutions to return the keystone fish habitat of the mullet to its original state and subsequently enhance the rivers resilience to future seasonal flooding events under projected sea-level rises.

“Reuse of the existing concrete block river edge also ensues a net positive climate outcome.”

Student: Shuwen Li
Course: Bachelor Landscape Architecture (Honours)
Email: catherinerrr520[at]gmail.com
Tutors: Mike Harris, Linden Crane and Patrick Franklyn

Whispers of the River by Kang Zheng

“The Cooks River, known as Goolay’yari by the Traditional Custodians of the land, winds its way through the heart of Canterbury, carrying with it a rich tapestry of history, culture and ecological significance.

“Once a thriving tidal waterway teeming with biodiversity, the river has been shaped by urbanisation, resulting in degraded habitats, water pollution and diminished community connection.

“This project centres on the riverfront spaces of the Cooks River, envisioning them as catalysts for reimagining the river’s identity as both a natural system and a communal landscape.

“Rooted in a layered history of reclamation, urbanisation and ongoing restoration, the river’s complexity demands innovative, climate-conscious design strategies.

“By harmonising human activity with the river’s natural processes, this project aims to restore its ecological health, enhance its cultural significance and ensure its accessibility and vitality for future generations.”

Student: Kang Zheng
Course: Bachelor Landscape Architecture (Honours)
Email: zhengkang.au[at]gmail.com
Tutors: Mike Harris, Linden Crane and Patrick Franklyn

Sign of the Tides by Ella Short

“On matriarchal Dharug land, the Goolay’yari (Cooks River) is the most polluted urban river in Australia.

“With the heavy urbanisation of the river, its natural ecosystem services are almost lost, but there are signs of the river fighting back.

“This project will give the land back to the river with deep consideration of what was and what will become.

“Tides are a contingent, abiding event – pushed and pulled by the moon (yanada in Dharug). These ebb and flow cycles of science, spirituality and celebration have been deeply considered.

“Sign of the Tides has created spaces that encourage the ecological and social fluctuations that occur with water and lunar cycles.”

Student: Ella Short
Course: Bachelor Landscape Architecture (Honours)
Email: ellanshort[at]gmail.com
Tutors: Mike Harris, Linden Crane and Patrick Franklyn

Oasis: Transforming sleep with light and sound by Yingqi Amy Feng

“Oasis is a bedside sleep therapy system that reimagines the moment of switching off, transitioning seamlessly between ambient light and sound therapy.

“Inspired by the ritual of turning off the lights, its tactile pivot mechanism dims a warm 2500K light while activating customisable soundscapes grounded in cognitive behavioural therapy.

“Rhythmic breathing guides, white noise, and adaptive soundscapes relax the mind and promote deep sleep.

“Oasis is designed for longevity and has a replaceable magnetic front cover and a durable aluminium structure.”

Student: Yingqi Amy Feng
Course: Bachelor of Industrial Design (Honours)
Email: amyfengdesign[at]gmail.com
Tutors: Danielah Martinez and Christian Tietz

Robotic Computing by Rachel Deeb

“This project adopts an iterative design approach to optimise design and fabrication processes using Python scripting in Grasshopper for Rhinoceros.

“A series of physical prototypes were fabricated using a 3-axis 3D printer to test tool path techniques, including changes to feed and extrusion rates and to create diverse surface patterns and woven textures.”

Student: Rachel Deeb
Course: Bachelor of Design (Computational Design)
Email: r.deeb[at]student.unsw.edu.au
Tutor: Charlotte Firth

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and the University of New South Wales Sydney. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

The post University of New South Wales Sydney presents ten architecture and design projects appeared first on Dezeen.

The autumn edition of our Dezeen Showroom New Releases newsletter features a chair in the shape of a crescent moon by Wigiwama. Subscribe to Dezeen Showroom New Releases now!

Called the Moon Chair, the seat consists of three separate upholstered modules that were designed for children to play with.

The seat is one of five designs that feature in the latest edition of the quarterly newsletter, in which the Dezeen Showroom editor rounds up their top picks of design, furniture and fittings from the last season.

Other designs featured in the newsletter included wardrobes and storage by Reform, the Lines rug by Mayice for Gan, Mirrors 001 and 002 by Archive for Space for Béton Brut and Tiles by Palet.

Dezeen Showroom New Releases

Dezeen Showroom New Releases is sent four times a year, rounding up a selection of designs and products from the last season published on Dezeen Showroom. Read the latest edition of Dezeen Showroom New Releases or subscribe here.

You can also subscribe to our other newsletters;

• Dezeen Debate is sent every Tuesday and features a selection of the best reader comments and most talked-about stories
• Dezeen Agenda is sent every Tuesday containing a selection of the most important news highlights from the week
• Dezeen Daily is our daily bulletin that contains every story published in the preceding 24 hours
• Dezeen In Depth is sent on the last Friday of every month and delves deeper into the major stories shaping architecture and design.

The post Dezeen Showroom New Releases newsletter features moon-shaped chair appeared first on Dezeen.

Apple definitely turned heads and made believers out of doubters when it unveiled the Vision Pro and its spatial computing platform. But while the demos and first-hand experiences were nothing short of impressive, it quickly hit a snag even before it could launch to the general public. The price tag on this experience was pretty ludicrous, ensuring that visionOS would never leave the hands of an elite and lucky few.

Of course, Apple isn’t the only game in town, and while Microsoft has thrown in the towel and Meta seems to be taking its sweet time, Google has decided to take a dip into that space again. After trying and failing with the likes of Google Glasses, Daydream, and ARCore, just to name a few, it has announced a new Android XR platform to bring a Gemini-flavored eXtended reality experience to more people, with a little help from its hardware partners.

Designer: Google, Samsung

Android XR: Nth Time’s the Charm

It’s not like Google is a stranger to this kind of technology, though it has had mixed results over the years. Google Glass was an expensive privacy nightmare, Project Cardboard and Daydream went the opposite direction and prioritized affordability over quality control, and ARCore was just a blip on the radar. At the same time, Google also saw plenty of success in AR-powered apps like Google Lens, Street View, and, more recently, Gemini.

Android XR is its latest attempt to build on both failures and victories, though it seems that the formula it will be using is still the same. Namely, it is teaming up with hardware partners such as Qualcomm and Samsung, while building the software framework developers can use. As the name suggests, it its using Android as the underlying operating system, which brings both the familiarity of mobile apps as well as the limitations of a platform designed primarily for devices with screens.

Gemini AI: Screens Now Matter Less

It’s no surprise that Google is spinning this fresh new endeavor as part of its Gemini AI ecosystem. After all, it is putting AI into almost everything it owns, from Search to Gmail to Android and more. More than just a marketing stunt, however, it does partially make sense for a mixed reality platform. When your point interaction is no longer confined to a touch screen or keyboard, you’ll need something that spans almost all information available, which is Google’s vision and Gemini’s power.

Although Android XR naturally still has a visual component, it no longer locks you down to staring at a flat rectangular plane. You still have rectangular windows floating in front of you, a necessary evil from our computer-centric apps, but everything else is fair game. Gemini can see the world that you see and is smart enough to know what you’re looking at and infer what you mean. Of course, it can also converse with you naturally, giving you that much-coveted Iron Man experience.

Samsung Project Moohan: Taking a Bite out of Apple

Android XR won’t be as convincing without the right hardware, though. While developers will use a regular desktop or laptop to develop apps and experiences on a flat screen, you can only truly enjoy this eXtended reality when wearing a headset. Android XR is designed to run not only on those powerful visors but even on more discreet glasses, though the latter has yet to be revealed. At the moment, the only hardware demonstrated to work with comes from Samsung, one of Google’s strongest Android partner.

Just like Google, Samsung is familiar with this VR and AR space, from its phone-driven Gear VR to the Windows Mixed Reality HMD Odyssey. Project Moohan, a Korean word that means “infinity,” definitely looks like a clear stab at the Vision Pro but with one potential and critical difference. Although it could be priced competitively, it’s unlikely that Samsung or Google will dare to put such an exorbitant price tag for an experimental product, especially after Google Glass.

The “Pro” in Apple Vision

In essence, Android XR is trying to bring a spatial computing or mixed reality experience that leverages apps and technologies that people are already familiar with, especially now that they’re getting a taste of what Gemini AI can do. Unlike Apple visionOS which only has the Vision Pro as its solitary device, Google is opening up the platform to a variety of vendors and designs, potentially making it more accessible to a wider audience.

That said, if the live demo of Android XR is any indication, Google and partners are again laser-focused on the technical merits of the platform. In contrast, Apple has always championed the human side of the equation, going as far as meticulously ensuring virtual shadows on window corners are as accurate as their real-world counterparts. It is, of course, too early to say which eXtended reality experience will emerge victorious, but Apple should probably take note that it’s biggest rival is now gunning for its crown in a very big way.

The post How Android XR and Samsung headset could give the Apple Vision Pro a run for its money first appeared on Yanko Design.

Architecture studio AO is working with the Federal Aircraft Administration to move the Legends Tower skyscraper in Oklahoma forward after local authorities raised concerns over its height.

AO told Dezeen it has received comments from the FAA and is working to resolve the  issues resolved in order to move forward with the project.

It follows safety concerns being raised last month by local airport director Jeff Mulder, who told the Federal Aircraft Administration (FAA) the he believed the Legends Tower’s 581-metre (1,907 feet) height could create delays for air travel.

“Prioritizing saftey”

“We have received the FAA’s comments and are working with them to address these matters,” AO managing partner Rob Budetti told Dezeen.

“Our team is committed to collaborating with the FAA to find meaningful solutions that prioritize safety and compliance while supporting the vision for Legends Tower.”

The skyscraper is part of a development in Oklahoma City’s Bricktown District and has gained international attention after its developer Matteson Capital received approval from the local government for “unlimited height” to create a skyscraper that would be the tallest in the United States.

Pushback “expected”

After the issues were raised by Mulder, the development firm’s founder Scot Matteson said that pushback was “expected”.

He told local news outlet News 6 that Legends Tower could be a “little shorter” if necessary.

In an interview earlier this year, AO studio partner Bruce Greenfield told Dezeen that the height was not “necessary” and did not drive the initial designs of the project.

Boardwalk at Bricktown, the multi-use development that includes Legends Tower, will be constructed over multiple phases and has yet to break ground, though the developer said it had secured “full funding” for the project as of March 2024.

The FAA does have regulations regarding building height, and according to the administration, this limits most buildings to a max height of 2,000 feet (609 metres) in cities, though it does note that “local conditions” should be taken into account when making height restrictions.

Complaints about height have previously caused the FAA to issue notices asking developers to lower heights. In 2016, the FAA told the developer of a long-harried Seattle skyscraper that it must reduce its height due to claims of operation disruption.

The renders are courtesy of AO.

The post Architects of proposed US tallest skyscraper “collaborating” with FAA to move forward appeared first on Dezeen.