Latest news with #IrthiContemporaryCraftsCouncil
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".
Sharjah 24
22-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
'Traditional crafts' panel discussion explores sector's future
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. 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. This initiative aims to support the long-term sustainability of traditional crafts, elevate their cultural and economic value, and ensure their recognition as essential contributors to the nation's intangible heritage. 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 Bulgari, 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 For 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. She also emphasised the Centre's ongoing efforts to preserve the UAE's intangible cultural heritage through printed materials, digital content, and the "Al-Sana'" programme aimed at instilling Emirati values in younger generations. She also pointed to the Centre's international presence through global exhibitions and the "Batsa" brand, noting that the Centre's affiliated craftswomen are honoured as "guardians of heritage" to foster a sense of identity and encourage continued engagement in safeguarding traditional crafts. 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. Al Muhairbi identified marketing as the greatest challenge, as it is crucial in connecting artisans with their target audiences. She also highlighted plans to expand the project's presence by opening shops at prominent tourist destinations in Abu Dhabi. 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. This is facilitated through strategic partnerships with both government entities and private sector organisations. He emphasised the centre's support for artisan mothers and efforts to market their products, commending the younger generation, especially girls, for their active role in promoting these crafts on social media, which has significantly boosted sales. 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". The pavilion features selected works by its affiliated artisans, live workshops, and a virtual museum offering a digital archive of traditional crafts, highlighting their cultural and economic significance.
Sharjah 24
21-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
"Irthi" supports craftswomen in "Make it in the Emirates"
The participation aims to support and empower craftswomen, seek to establish a unified policy that supports them and enhances the sustainability of their projects, and showcase the other side of crafts to the public: the contemporary aspect. Sustaining traditional crafts Sharifa Hassan Al Dhahouri expressed her happiness with the participation of the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, affiliated with the NAMA Women Advancement Establishment (NAMA), in the fourth edition of the "Make it in the Emiartes", held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The aim is to empower craftswomen and develop a unified policy that contributes to the continuity and sustainability of their traditional handicrafts, linking them to an innovative, contemporary aspect. Innovative touch Al Dhahouri noted that the Council participates in a wide range of institutions that support crafts of all kinds in the United Arab Emirates, with several specialised departments. She added that the Council is working to develop traditional crafts by integrating them with other materials to produce pieces with a new and innovative touch. Leather has been combined with palm fronds in the "Saffafa" craft, leather and pearls in the "Talli" craft, and leather has also been incorporated into the "Farokha" craft. The purpose of including leather in these three crafts is to ensure their sustainability. Al Dhahouri noted that a game called "Hiraf," is available on the Apple Store, to encourage children to learn about the "Talli" and "Saffafa" crafts. The Council is also participating in the virtual museum, which was created in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide the public with an opportunity to learn about the pieces electronically. Al Dhahouri explained that a number of pieces, including "Nada Debs," was designed with "talli" wood inlay, and pieces of gold and silver prayer beads. "We also have the "Alia Bin Omair" collection, which is a gold collection created using the "saffafa" craft, in addition to the Cartier basket, which was designed in collaboration with the House of Cartier and is made of palm fronds and in a colour that reflects the brand's identity."
