Isola, the charming neighbourhood-style Italian restaurant at Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse, is home to two NFT (non-fungible token) artworks, the first of its kind integration into a restaurant.

An NFT is a digital asset representing real-world objects like art, music, in-game items, and videos. They are bought and sold online, frequently with cryptocurrency,and are generally encoded with the same underlying software as many cryptos.

The art pieces are from the “In Pursuit of Utopia” series from artist Nabil Anani, a key founder of the contemporary Palestinian art movement. Anani paints the picturesque hills of Palestine without the ever-increasing Israeli settlements, bypass roads, roadblocks, walls, and watchtowers that are typically visible in every corner. Instead, he creates the Palestine of his dreams, a utopia inspired by his memories as a child growing up on the hills of Halhoul.

Anani’s work stems from his fascination with the Palestinian landscape and rural life, which he has addressed throughout his artistic journey. In this series of works, one can rarely spot a human or their shadow, for the primary focus remains on the aesthetic of the place, giving the audience the chance to ponder and appreciate the scenic terrain.

MORROW collective is working with Zawyeh Gallery and Sunset Hospitality Group to develop and integrate the NFTs into the restaurant. The collaboration aims to enhance customers dining experience by bringing hanging artworks to life through NFTs and augmented reality technology. MORROW collective is NFT curators and consultants and exist to bridge the gap between the traditional and NFT art worlds.

Claire Harris, communications, MORROW collective: ‘It has been a pleasure working with Isola to integrate NFTs into their restaurant, representing the first of its kind in the region. Creating new and interactive experiences using art, NFTs and blockchain technology is an exciting space to be working in and we are looking forward to exploring this further in the hospitality industry.”

Both the physical pieces and NFTs are available for purchase. In addition, customers can view the animated NFT counterpart by downloading the @artiviveapp, an augmented reality tool.

For information, please email info@morrow-collective.com or call Isola Ristorante at +971 4583 3124.