Random International is a London and Berlin-based art collective that was established in 2005. Through emotionally charged yet physically demanding experiences, their work—which includes sculpture, performance, and large-scale architectural installations—explores the human condition in a world that is becoming more mechanical. The Middle East debut and initial permanent installation of this project by Random International can be found in
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The Rain Room, a permanent installation at the Sharjah Art Foundation in its own bespoke building, allows you to move through rain without getting wet: sensors detect your location and stop the water from falling.
The rain room
The Rain Room's main selling point is that you don't get wet. That is correct, but only if you have the self-control of, say, an adult. Any movement that is faster than the sensors can handle - the speed of someone trying to cross the street without being hit by a Land Cruiser - results in a large, surprisingly cold plop of water right down your back. It's possible to believe that your only desire in life is to have a large amount of water plop directly down the middle of your back, but in reality, you don't want that at all. transform it into a zen exercise.
This is crucial if you're not an adult or if you're packing for someone who isn't an adult. Children running through the water of the Rain Room is one of the happiest things I've witnessed in my two visits so far. Making up rules that kids can merrily break is one of the unexpected pleasures of parenthood. True, unbridled joy is made all the better by not being allowed. What is not acceptable, however, is having wet, squealing kids in the middle of an overly air-conditioned Emirati summer. Make yourself ready.
The Sharjah Rain Room is a permanent attraction in Al Mujarrah that was installed by the Sharjah Art Foundation. The controlled environment simulates walking in the rain...but without getting wet! Since its debut in 2018, this rain room in the UAE has wowed and delighted visitors.
The Sharjah Rain Room is a controlled environment that replicates rainfall indoors by using 2,500 liters of self-cleaning recycled water. Visitors can walk through this controlled space without getting wet thanks to 3D tracking cameras and high-tech sensors that turn off the showers as soon as they enter the exhibit.
Experiences of the rain room
Let's talk a little bit about the Rain Room experience now that we understand what this place is and how it operates. There are time slots assigned to each visit to this attraction. You are given a 15-minute window for installation exploration and photo opportunities with each reservation for the Sharjah Rain Room.
When your time at the Sharjah Rain Room is called, a volunteer will give you a tour of the space and show you how quickly you should move through the exhibit. If you get to the Sharjah Rain Room building earlier than your scheduled time, you can eat at the snack bar close to the reception area.
Precocious
After being briefed, you have a total of 10 minutes to look around the room and take the pictures you want. The lighting in the space is ideal for creating the impression that you are standing in the rain. For the best photos, we suggest traveling in a pair or with a group of friends.
Visitors must proceed slowly through the rain room. Any sudden movements won't be detected by the sensors. You must move slowly and with extreme caution if you don't want to get wet in order to give the sensors time to track your every move. If you don't want to take a chance on getting a little wet, make sure to keep your phones and other electronic devices out of the way.
Last note
Any attire that is dark, shiny, or reflective can interfere with the room's sensors. When visiting the rain room, stay away from wearing high heels or pointed shoes, as they can be dangerous. It is strictly forbidden to film for music videos, photo shoots, or other promotional content.
