Latest news with #IrthiContemporaryCraftsCouncil
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Irthi marks a decade of empowering artisans
The Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council is celebrating its 10th anniversary since its establishment in 2015 under the patronage and directives of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council. The council marks this milestone with a series of events and initiatives throughout the year, reaffirming its commitment to empowering women artisans, as well as reviving traditional handcrafts and introducing them to the world through a contemporary vision that preserves their cultural essence while enhancing their economic presence. Since its inception in 2015, Irthi has embodied the vision of Sheikha Jawaher to build a sustainable creative economy led by women, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for empowering artisans. Originating in Sharjah, the council has expanded its efforts to 13 countries worldwide, and 840 artisans, reflecting rapid growth in training programmes, production, skills transfer, and cultural exchange. Reem BinKaram, Director-General of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, stressed that supporting traditional crafts is key to the UAE's cultural project. She noted that Sharjah has transformed the sector into an economic and social pillar reflecting community identity, enabling individuals, especially women, to contribute to development. BinKaram stated Irthi's decade-long journey has championed a global renewal of heritage, strengthening Emirati crafts internationally while establishing local appreciation of artisanal creativity as a national resource. This enhances identity, serves the community, and opens prospects for Emirati women and the creative sector. Marking its tenth anniversary, Irthi has planned over seven local and international events, including those in Sharjah, London, Basel, and Moscow, as well as more than five new strategic partnerships. Activities at these events will include workshops, exhibitions, and expert panel discussions, and the council is also set to debut new collections merging heritage aesthetics with contemporary innovation. Irthi strengthened its global presence through various notable partnerships, including the likes of Bulgari, Cartier, Design Miami, and Asprey. These collaborations showcased Emirati crafts at prestigious events worldwide, including those in Paris, London, Dubai, Moscow, Shanghai, Milan, and São Paulo. WAM
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Irthi celebrates 10 impactful years of empowering artisans
The council marks this milestone with a series of events and initiatives throughout the year, reaffirming its commitment to empowering women artisans, as well as reviving traditional handcrafts and introducing them to the world through a contemporary vision that preserves their cultural essence while enhancing their economic presence. A decade of empowerment and growth Since its inception in 2015, Irthi has embodied the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi to build a sustainable creative economy led by women, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for empowering artisans. Originating in Sharjah, the council has expanded its efforts to 13 countries worldwide, and 840 artisans, reflecting rapid growth in training programmes, production, skills transfer, and cultural exchange. Under Her Highness's leadership, the council has successfully integrated traditional skills within contemporary design and has launched various collections inspired by Emirati heritage, such as, 'Al Taif,' 'Moui,' 'Tilad,' 'Nadd,' 'Sofra,' among others. This transformation has elevated crafts from everyday utility to artistic symbols rich in cultural significance and national identity. A global model for heritage revival and renewal Reem BinKaram, Director General of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, stressed that supporting traditional crafts is key to the UAE's cultural project. She noted that Sharjah has transformed the sector into an economic and social pillar reflecting community identity, enabling individuals, especially women, to contribute to development. BinKaram stated Irthi's decade-long journey has championed a global renewal of heritage, strengthening Emirati crafts internationally while establishing local appreciation of artisanal creativity as a national resource. This enhances identity, serves the community, and opens prospects for Emirati women and the creative sector. The Irthi Director General congratulated Emirati artisans for their indispensable role in reinforcing national identity, emphasising their efforts to preserve heritage for future generations. 'Since Irthi's establishment ten years ago, under the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, our priority has been to reposition crafts as a genuine opportunity for empowerment, particularly for women, and to restore artisans to their rightful place as creative women who contribute to development. We believe that what women artisans offer is not only of material value but also plays an important role in reshaping the community's relationship with its heritage,' she added. Marking its tenth anniversary, Irthi has planned over 7 local and international events, including those in Sharjah, London, Basel, and Moscow, as well as more than 5 new strategic partnerships. Activities at these events will include workshops, exhibitions, and expert panel discussions, and the council is also set to debut new collections merging heritage aesthetics with contemporary innovation. Innovation and global recognition Guided by Her Highness's vision for crafts as cultural dialogue, Irthi strengthened its global presence through various notable partnerships including the likes of Bulgari, Cartier, Design Miami, and Asprey. These collaborations showcased Emirati crafts at prestigious events worldwide, including those in Paris, London, Dubai, Moscow, Shanghai, Milan, and São Paulo. Irthi also played a major role in Sharjah's 2019 designation as a UNESCO Creative City in Crafts and Folk Arts, recognising it as the home of the authentic 'Talli' craft and a global centre for contemporary craft innovation. Knowledge transfer and heritage documentation Irthi preserves craft heritage through documentation and contemporary presentation, producing research papers and publications such as 'Palm Fibre,' 'Crafting Natural Dyes,' 'Perfume,' 'Recipes for the Future', and 'Architecture of Culture.' In 2024 alone, the council organised over 60 workshops that saw nearly 1,400 participants. Community programmes, including embroidery workshops have implemented Emirati, Palestinian, Jordanian, and Pakistani techniques and designs, alongside local crafts like 'Safeefa' and 'Faroukha,' creating spaces for skill exchange and integration between the UAE, Middle East, and Asia. These initiatives also promote associated cultural values and narratives to broader audiences. A continued vision and sustainable impact The ten-year milestone of Irthi's establishment marks the launch of a new phase of empowerment and innovation, as the council continues its efforts to support artisans locally and globally, promote sustainability in the crafts sector, and explore new avenues for skills and market development. With every new initiative and collection, Irthi reaffirms its commitment to revitalising traditional crafts within contemporary life, expanding their cultural and socioeconomic impact, ensuring that Emirati craft heritage remains alive, serving as a beacon of inspiration for future generations to embrace creativity, pride and cultural identity .
Gulf Today
26-05-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
IRTHI champions artisanal excellence of UAE in Russia
Bridging Emirati heritage with global design innovation, the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council (IRTHI) proved to be a pillar of cultural dialogue and artisanal excellence at the Moscow Interior and Design Week 2025 (MIDW), which was held from May 22 to 25, 2025. Within the renowned Manezh Central Exhibition Hall in Moscow, IRTHI's participation underscored its mission to preserve tradition while championing sustainability and women's empowerment, positioning Sharjah's craft legacy at the heart of contemporary design conversations. Commenting on their participation, Reem BinKaram, General Director of IRTHI stated, 'Guided by the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Chairperson of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, we practice and promote craft as a tool for social development, cultural diplomacy, and innovation; all of which are evident in the collections we have brought to Moscow.' 'We have been deeply moved by the overwhelmingly warm reception from the Russian people, whose enthusiasm to engage with our heritage-driven initiatives reflects a shared passion for cultural dialogue and artisanal excellence. It is an honour for Irthi to be among the very first entities to lead with such a prominent presence at this gathering, positioning our platform as a focal point of the event. We view designers as collaborators and creators in equal measure, and they serve as the link between ancestral knowledge and contemporary expression,' BinKaram reflected. As an attraction to the thousands of attendees to the 4-day event, and the only pavilion from the MENASA region, IRTHI's curated booth captivated visitors and design professionals with immaculate Emirati craftsmanship and modern aesthetics. The display featured collections from the council's cross-cultural collaborations between local and regional artisans and global designers, including pieces that reimagine palm frond weaving (sa'af), intricate embroidery (talli), and sustainable materials like recycled metals and natural dyes. The pavilion's emphasis on sustainability and tradition resonated deeply, and visitors explored how centuries-old practices, such as resource-efficient dyeing and zero-waste palm weaving, align with modern eco-conscious values. By framing these crafts as premium design solutions, IRTHI challenged perceptions, proving that tradition holds timeless relevance in luxury interiors. IRTHI's thought leadership was also highlighted through their participation in two insightful panel discussions. The first, 'Reinvesting in Heritage,' featured BinKaram, alongside Russian heritage experts and designers. BinKaram highlighted IRTHI's initiatives to revive endangered crafts through vocational training and global partnerships, saying 'At Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, we believe restoring heritage crafts is about creating living, evolving traditions; not just preserving relics of the past,' she asserted, citing collaborations that empower women artisans to reinterpret traditions for international markets. BinKaram also emphasised IRTHI's success in creating economic opportunities for over 1,000 women across the MENASEA and Central Asia regions. 'By linking our local artisans with designers from London to Milan and beyond, IRTHI fosters a creative exchange where ancestral skills meet contemporary demand.' This approach, she noted, ensures crafts 'thrive as notable contributors to global design economies.' In the second panel, 'Nature is Within Four Walls,' IRTHI's Head of Marketing, Aisha Al Harmoodi, joined sustainability leaders and manufacturers to explore design's ecological role. Al Harmoodi detailed how IRTHI's use of locally sourced materials; including palm fibers, camel wool, and natural pigments; embodies a profound connection to the UAE's landscapes and historic culture. 'Our crafts are realised through an intimate dialogue with nature,' she explained. 'They teach us that sustainability is far more than a trend and represents an important legacy we can all appreciate and respect.' She reflected through the example of IRTHI's Bidwa project, where Bedouin weaving techniques inspire modern home textiles, reducing environmental impact while preserving cultural identity. Al Harmoodi's insights aligned with global shifts toward biophilic design, positioning IRTHI as a leader in culturally rooted sustainability. IRTHI's participation at MIDW 2025 reaffirms its role as a champion for cultural preservation and female empowerment; and demonstrates that cultural heritage, when nurtured innovatively, can shape sustainable, inclusive futures.
Sharjah 24
25-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
IRTHI champions Emirati excellence during MIDW
Commenting on their participation, Her Excellency Reem BinKaram, General Director of IRTHI stated, 'Guided by the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Chairperson of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, we practice and promote craft as a tool for social development, cultural diplomacy, and innovation; all of which are evident in the collections we have brought to Moscow.' 'We have been deeply moved by the overwhelmingly warm reception from the Russian people, whose enthusiasm to engage with our heritage-driven initiatives reflects a shared passion for cultural dialogue and artisanal excellence. It is an honour for Irthi to be among the very first entities to lead with such a prominent presence at this gathering, positioning our platform as a focal point of the event. We view designers as collaborators and creators in equal measure, and they serve as the link between ancestral knowledge and contemporary expression,' BinKaram reflected. Displaying Emirati heritage on the global stage As an attraction to the thousands of attendees to the 4-day event, and the only pavilion from the MENASA region, IRTHI's curated booth captivated visitors and design professionals with immaculate Emirati craftsmanship and modern aesthetics. The display featured collections from the council's cross-cultural collaborations between local and regional artisans and global designers, including pieces that reimagine palm frond weaving (sa'af), intricate embroidery (talli), and sustainable materials like recycled metals and natural dyes. The pavilion's emphasis on sustainability and tradition resonated deeply, and visitors explored how centuries-old practices, such as resource-efficient dyeing and zero-waste palm weaving, align with modern eco-conscious values. By framing these crafts as premium design solutions, IRTHI challenged perceptions, proving that tradition holds timeless relevance in luxury interiors. A vision for empowerment and sustainability IRTHI's thought leadership was also highlighted through their participation in two insightful panel discussions. The first, 'Reinvesting in Heritage,' featured Her Excellency Reem BinKaram, IRTHI's General Director, alongside Russian heritage experts and designers. BinKaram highlighted IRTHI's initiatives to revive endangered crafts through vocational training and global partnerships, saying 'At Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, we believe restoring heritage crafts is about creating living, evolving traditions; not just preserving relics of the past,' she asserted, citing collaborations that empower women artisans to reinterpret traditions for international markets. BinKaram also emphasised IRTHI's success in creating economic opportunities for over 1,000 women across the MENASEA and Central Asia regions. 'By linking our local artisans with designers from London to Milan and beyond, IRTHI fosters a creative exchange where ancestral skills meet contemporary demand.' This approach, she noted, ensures crafts 'thrive as notable contributors to global design economies.' In the second panel, 'Nature is Within Four Walls,' IRTHI's Head of Marketing, Aisha Al Harmoodi, joined sustainability leaders and manufacturers to explore design's ecological role. Al Harmoodi detailed how IRTHI's use of locally sourced materials; including palm fibers, camel wool, and natural pigments; embodies a profound connection to the UAE's landscapes and historic culture. 'Our crafts are realised through an intimate dialogue with nature,' she explained. 'They teach us that sustainability is far more than a trend and represents an important legacy we can all appreciate and respect.' She reflected through the example of IRTHI's Bidwa project, where Bedouin weaving techniques inspire modern home textiles, reducing environmental impact while preserving cultural identity. Al Harmoodi's insights aligned with global shifts toward biophilic design, positioning IRTHI as a leader in culturally rooted sustainability. IRTHI's participation at MIDW 2025 reaffirms its role as a champion for cultural preservation and female empowerment; and demonstrates that cultural heritage, when nurtured innovatively, can shape sustainable, inclusive futures.
Gulf Today
22-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Irthi explores strategies to help empower artisans
In a move that underscores the significance of traditional crafts in supporting and developing the creative economy, a panel discussion titled 'Traditional crafts: identity, economy, sustainability', held as part of the "Make it in the Emirates" Forum, brought together leading national institutions and centres dedicated to crafts, heritage and culture to unify visions on the future of traditional crafts as both an economic and cultural force. Organised by Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the discussion hosted Asma Al Hammadi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Creatives Development Sector at the Ministry of Culture; Reem BinKaram, Director General of Irthi; Salama Al Shamsi, Director of Cultural Sites at the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi; Hind Al Mehairbi, Director of the AlGhadeer Emirati Crafts Project; Eng. Ghalia Al Manai, Head of Strategic Affairs at the General Women's Union, and Fayez Al Yamahi, Deputy Director General of Ghars Centre for Social Empowerment. The panel discussion served as a platform to explore strategies for empowering artisans both socially and economically, while discussing the role of innovation in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the traditional crafts sector and strengthening its visibility in local and international markets. A national registry for craftspeople Asma Al Hammadi emphasised that traditional crafts bring unique value and appeal to contemporary products, even when incorporated subtly, due to their profound cultural significance. She noted that the Ministry of Economy is actively safeguarding the intellectual property of local heritage products as a vital step to enhance their commercial presence both locally and internationally, through initiatives, including the Geographical Indications programme. The panel discussion under way. Al Hammadi also announced that the Ministry has launched a national registry for artisans to facilitate their access to international markets and integrate them into the creative economy. From traditional heritage to a sustainable economic contributor During the session, Reem BinKaram highlighted the pivotal role of Irthi, chaired by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, in transforming Emirati crafts into significant economic and cultural assets. She explained that this transformation is driven by a contemporary approach that expands local and international marketing opportunities. BinKaram noted that the Council began by supporting a single artisan and has grown to include over 500, supported through specialised training programmes and international partnerships that have positioned Emirati crafts on global platforms. She also highlighted Irthi's holistic commitment to cultural, economic and environmental sustainability, and commended its collaborations with leading brands such as Bvlgari, Asprey and Cartier, which have integrated artisans into the global creative economy and enabled them to build competitive local brands. Women artisans are guardians of heritage On her part, Eng. Ghalia Al Manai stated that the Heritage and Crafts Industries Centre, established in 1978 on the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak and with the support of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is the first national institution dedicated to empowering Emirati women artisans. She noted that the Centre provides a supportive environment through monthly stipends and advanced vocational training across six specialised workshops focused on reviving traditional Emirati crafts, including Sadu weaving, Talli, palm frond weaving, textile production, tailoring and embroidery, and modern arts. Al Manai also highlighted the "Matjari" app, which markets products made by productive families and was recognised with the Government Summit Award in 2015. Marketing remains the biggest challenge During the session, Hend Al Muhairbi explained that since its establishment in 2006, the Al Ghadeer Emirati Crafts Project has focused on economically empowering artisans by producing contemporary crafts grounded in traditional practices. She noted that the project extends beyond training and providing raw materials, taking responsibility for marketing the products locally and internationally through exhibitions and retail outlets to secure a sustainable income for its members. Digital potential for artisans Fayez Al Yamahi explained that the Ghars Centre for Social Empowerment, part of the Fujairah Charity Association, is dedicated to developing products by productive families as a means of economic empowerment. Al Yamahi also noted that the centre is preparing to launch a dedicated digital platform to strengthen artisans' online presence and create new opportunities for market growth and engagement. Irthi participated in the Make it in the Emirates Forum at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, which concluded on May 22, through a dedicated pavilion in the "Crafts and Innovation Zone".
