Invoking the spirit of nostalgia
Beloved Peruvian hotspot COYA is undergoing a transformation this season, as Emirati artist Marwa Hashim takes over the space to showcase Whispers of Memory, an installation celebrating the spirit of Halloween. Conceptualised with the intent of finding magic and mystery in everyday, overlooked objects, the showcase features mirrors, clocks, typewriters, and books reimagined as carriers of hidden stories.
The atmosphere of the space is almost dreamlike, with shadows and illusions offering a sense of whimsy and otherworldliness. Besides the everyday objects, visitors will also find faded carnival details like masks, mirrors and old tickets, creating a sort of ghostly feeling of nostalgia.
Visitors are invited to explore a secret archive where each piece tells the story of lives once lived, to relive, reflect and perhaps discover something new.
“Whispers of Memory is about finding beauty in overlooked objects. Each piece carries fragments of time and hidden voices that invite us to pause and reflect,” says Marwa Hashim.
COYA’s Artistic Identity
This is not the first time art is taking centre stage at COYA – art has been a central part of COYA’s global identity for a long time, with each venue doubling as a gallery. The mission at COYA Dubai is to highlight local and regional talent, become the platform they need to reach newer, fresher audiences.
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Earlier collaborations with Marwa include Lace & Line: A Monochrome Exploration of Intricate Femininity during Mama Quilla, a celebration of unity in femininity, of which Chef Penelope Diaz of the acclaimed Peruvian concept Fusion Ceviche was also a part.
Whispers of Memory is the next step in this journey.
Whispers of Memory will be on display from 15 October onwards at COYA Dubai, Restaurant Village.
Image credit: Supplied
Deeply passionate about food, culture and community, Manaal loves telling extraordinary stories of ordinary people. Besides sniffing out a tale to tell, her favourite things to do include binging true crime documentaries, chasing cats on the streets and curating a good outfit.
