A University of Sharjah professor has been one of the winners of the prestigious 2023 Future Pioneers Award, the prize that sets a new benchmark for sustainable excellence across the Middle East and North African (MENA) countries.

Dr. Iman AbdelShahid Ibrahim, Assistant Professor at the College of Fine Arts and Design, was among 23 winners out of 2600 entries competing for the award.

Dr. Ibrahim won with “Eco-Mesh", a parametric panel of marvel which the artist adorns with Islamic geometry patters and blends tradition, innovation, and environmental consciousness.

"The geometric pattern is not just an aesthetic choice; it's a functional marvel. It allows us to control natural light, shade, and airflow, offering a dynamic and adaptive solution for various spaces," said Dr. Ibrahim.

“The panel's elaborate designs pay homage to the timeless beauty and mathematical accuracy that have defined this art form for millennia by reimagining the geometric motifs used in traditional Islamic construction.

“Light, shadow, and airflow can all be controlled thanks to the geometric pattern that was painstakingly designed using computational techniques," according to Dr. Ibrahim.

“The panel's clever design allows it to adapt to its surroundings, allowing for the regulation of natural light, the provision of optimal shade, and the promotion of effective airflow."

Dr. Ibrahim's Islamic-imbued images come in the shape muqarnas, a three-dimensional decorative element mostly used in embellishing domes in Muslim countries.

The tempting trophy is conferred by BEEAH, which in Arabic means the environment. It is the Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) most influential sustainable, smart solutions, environment and waste management group which envisions a future built on sustainability and better quality of life across the MENA region.

Dr. Ibrahim's panel is more than decorative marvel. It is a conscientious creation. The model is a 3D, and the fusion of technology and sustainable materials showcase an eco-friendly approach to design.

The 3D print of the artwork enables the creation of intricate patterns, which enliven her Islamic-inspired geometry inspired parametric panel.

Dr. Ibrahim says her goal is to further integrate Islamic cultural heritage and contemporary design methods.

“This involves further exploration and integration of Islamic geometric patterns in modern architectural contexts, thereby preserving cultural history while innovating in design," she adds.

She believes her panel can be adapted to various environments due to its dynamic design.

“Future applications could see these panels being used in a wider variety of architectural spaces, both for their aesthetic appeal and their functional benefits in terms of light control, shade, and ventilation."

Meanwhile, Dr. Ibrahim aims to promote a circular economy in building materials.

“This involves not only using recycled materials but also exploring other eco-friendly materials and processes that reduce the environmental footprint."