The Book of Optics, written by the Arab scholar Ibn al Haytham in 1021 AD, formed the conceptual framework of the Public Art Program of EXPO 2020 in Dubai. Eleven renowned artists were invited to create newly commissioned, permanent artworks in public space to explore this central work of medieval science.

The publication presents the works together with numerous text contributions. They explore the philosophical definitions of vision, cognition, and the importance of imagination in constructing a coherent picture of reality. With over 190 countries participating, EXPO 2020 in Dubai brought together numerous cultural and artistic initiatives to build bridges between people, communities and nations.