Latest news with #JAXDistrict
Asharq Al-Awsat
4 days ago
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Fashion Commission Closes 1st Phase of 'Fashion Performance & Modeling' Course in Riyadh
The Fashion Commission has closed the first phase of the 'Fashion Performance & Modeling' course, delivered in partnership with globally renowned fashion institution Istituto Marangoni and in collaboration with Elite Model Management. The course, which launched its first phase on May 18, is designed to equip aspiring models and fashion talent with both the theoretical foundation and practical tools required to succeed in the global fashion industry, SPA reported. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with immersive, hands-on experiences across key topics, including the history of fashion, fashion styling, body language, performance techniques, and live project development. The second phase of the course will begin June 15 and continue until June 26, and will be hosted at FCR in the JAX District. Upon successful completion of the course, trainees will receive an official certificate of achievement from Istituto Marangoni, recognizing their participation in a renowned educational experience. As part of the commission's broader mission to support the creative industries and expand regional opportunities in modeling, this course helps develop local talent, foster professionalism, and elevate Saudi Arabia's presence within the international fashion ecosystem.
Trade Arabia
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Trade Arabia
Ithra shines at debut Downtown Design Riyadh
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is participating in the inaugural edition of Downtown Design Riyadh, the Kingdom's first fair dedicated to contemporary, high-quality design, with a presentation that highlights how its creative programs foster exploration, community engagement, and cross-disciplinary dialogue. At the event, which runs until until May 23 at JAX District, Ithra was a key voice in a dynamic panel discussion themed 'Fostering community in a fast-forward market.' The session explored the importance of building a vibrant design community and emphasizing the role of creative education, mentorship, institutional support, and cross-sector collaboration in empowering emerging designers as they shape the Kingdom's design landscape. Ithra's Creativity & Innovation Unit Head, Sultan Albadran, joined the panel alongside senior culture and design leaders from the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, the Saudi Artisanal Company and Iwan Maktabi, a legacy family brand specializing in antique and contemporary carpets, to share Ithra's contributions in design. Albadran touched upon Ithra's ongoing efforts to create opportunities for designers to push their creative boundaries, engage across disciplines, and explore new forms of expression. He spoke of the contributions made through Ithra's programs such as Tanween, Ithra's annual flagship design event, which have created spaces where experimentation is not only encouraged but translated into real-world outcomes. Some of these outcomes are on view for audiences to experience at Downtown Design Riyadh, in the form of three installations: Adeem, IWAN Pavilion, and Open Segments. Originally developed through Tanween, each piece explores the potential of design to bridge references from Saudi material culture with globally resonant ideas in spatial and product design. Ithra not only facilitated their creation, but has also extended their journey beyond Ithra's walls with their exhibition at Downtown Design Riyadh, building on previous showcases at Milan Design Week, Concéntrico International Festival of Architecture and Design in Spain and Dubai Design Week. The installations are accompanied by a public workshop series run by Ithra that has attracted participants of all ages and backgrounds. These are the only hands-on workshops taking place at Downtown Design Riyadh, and reflect Ithra's engagement-led approach to inspiring creativity. Sessions include modular folding structures, silkscreen printing, and sustainable packaging, offering participants opportunities to experiment with technique, explore form, and consider the role of design in addressing contemporary challenges. Reflecting on the fair, Albadran said: "Ithra is honoured to contribute to the inaugural edition of Downtown Design Riyadh, a historic milestone in the Kingdom's emergence as a global cultural hub. Our participation reflects Ithra's role within this thriving ecosystem, nurturing creativity and offering meaningful opportunities for designers to engage with global audiences."
Arab News
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Tradition drives the contemporary at Downtown Design Riyadh fair
RIYADH: Design is always evolving, but at Riyadh's first Downtown Design fair, it is tradition that is shaping the contemporary. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ From elegant, oversized rugs to gleaming light fixtures and bold statement chairs, artisanal pieces line up the exhibition halls at Riyadh's JAX District, showcasing a medley of heritage pieces that are redefining what modern design looks like. A post shared by Downtown Design (@downtowndesignd) Trame Paris' collaboration with Maison L. Drucker brings new meaning to Parisian cafe bistro chairs. The 'Enlace' collection utilizes an algorithm to generate unique digital patterns that make every customizable chair a one-of-a-kind piece. Ismail Tazi, founder of Trame, said they were 'continuing this conversation between technology and craftsmanship.' A post shared by Downtown Design (@downtowndesignd) He added that as an Arab he was 'very proud because 'algorithm' is derived from Al-Khwarizmi — a Muslim scholar who was born in today's Uzbekistan. 'So it's really something that represents me today and how I'm looking to balance my own heritage and still be part of this cultural revolution and define a new Arab aesthetic within this digital revolution.' Iwan Maktabi, a brand that specializes in contemporary takes on antique rugs, displayed a number of eye-catching carpets — particularly a piece called 'The Noorah.' Made of handwoven wool and silk, the black base of the wall rug stands out with pink, orange, and silver accents, embellished with gold motifs; and is inspired by traditional Saudi Arabic textiles. Jordan-based Naqsh Collective centralizes the concept of engravings, which is one of the first forms of art. Blending architecture and design with traditional embroidery methods, their work becomes a mode for storytelling. One of the pieces on display is derived from the embellishments on women's thobes, specifically around the collar. A post shared by Downtown Design (@downtowndesignd) Nermeen Abudail, co-founder of the collective, said: 'In this piece, we talk about how the ladies did their embroidery in the backyards. They sat together collectively creating motifs inspired by their flora and fauna. 'Each pattern comes from a region. Amulets, flowers, cyprus trees — each holds a name, comes from a region and tells a story of why it was embroidered.' Each piece is hand-cut, inlaid, and finished with solid brass on walnut wood. The four-day event, running until May 23, showcases collectible works and ultra-high-end collections presented by international galleries, independent designers and manufacturers.
Zawya
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Inaugural Downtown Design Riyadh is now open
A section dedicated to high-end and limited-edition design features works by names such as Thomas Heatherwick, Draga & Aurel, Sabine Marselis and Naqsh Collective Saudi talent is at the heart of the fair, from the Designed in Saudi to independent exhibitors showcasing their latest collections, and bespoke collaborations with local design studios Programme highlights include an immersive public intervention hand-made from rammed earth, an insightful talks programme and engaging pop-up concepts, including a glow-in the dark culinary experience by Bompas & Parr Saudi Arabia, Riyadh: Downtown Design Riyadh has opened its doors, marking the Kingdom's first fair dedicated to contemporary, high-quality design. Set in the heart of JAX District, Riyadh's cultural quarter from 20-23 May, the fair is held in partnership with the Architecture and Design Commission of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture. Committed to showcasing contemporary and high-quality design, the programme spans global brands, emerging talent from the region, and a programme activations and experiences staged throughout the district's indoor and outdoor spaces. Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission, said, 'Downtown Design Riyadh represents an important step in our efforts to build a design culture that stems from Saudi identity and engages openly with the world. Through its diverse programs, the exhibition focuses on this vision, bringing together the works of Saudi designers, both emerging and established, alongside prestigious international names, within a framework that supports creative production and stimulates knowledge exchange. Our strategic sponsorship of the exhibition embodies our support for the sector and our goal of attracting the most prominent international exhibitions and events specialised in architecture and design, strengthening our current position and future ambitions, at a time when design is becoming a pivotal element in the Kingdom's cultural and economic landscapes. Exhibitor Highlights Cosentino is presenting the Moon Vignettes installation by Kuwait-based Babnimnim Design Studio, Lasvit is featuring Splash, a glass lighting installation designed by Martin Gallo and Natuzzi Italia is debuting the Amama project in the region, a new double-sided modular sofa created in collaboration with Andrea Steidl. Maison Louis Drucker has launched a collaboration with digital fabrication platform TRAME and design studio Aranda\Lasch, merging algorithmic design with time-honoured craftsmanship. Jotun is staging an experiential colour exhibition with a local designer, while Klekktik and Assembly has joined forces in a curated display that merges modern design with iconic vintage collectibles. Making its debut at the fair, Grey Garden Plant Studio is presenting a collection of raw, handmade planters and vases. Jaipur Rugs is showcasing collections from Tatiana De Nicolay's Jardins Du Monde among others. Saint Louis is presenting Torsade, a collection created in collaboration with Italian artist Stefania Di Petrillo, while Iwan Maktabi is introducing its collaborations with Blu Architects, David / Nicolas and Roula Salamoun. Scarlet Splendour is debuting in the region with a bold presentation including pure brass pieces by Richard Hutten, and Serafini will showcase the best of Italian craftsmanship through exclusive furniture and functional design. In a multi-brand showcase, Huda Lighting is presenting leading architectural and decorative lighting brands, including Brokis, Italamp, Panzeri and Bomma while The Bowery Company is exhibiting modern Scandinavian brands Audo Copenhagen, GUBI and &Tradition. Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, commented, 'This inaugural edition of our Riyadh fair brings together what Downtown Design does best - presenting a thoughtful mix of global brands, emerging talent and limited-edition design. We are proud to provide a platform for quality design in a local context. From installations and collaborations, to the wider programme of activities and pop-up concepts, Saudi creatives and the local burgeoning market are an essential part of the programme, helping to forge an experience that feels both rooted and forward-looking.' Exhibiting Saudi-based designers include Hobal, Lucas Barcelo, and the interior design studio co-founded by Saudi designer Noura Suleiman. Their work spans architecture, product and object design, with contemporary interpretations of cultural heritage. Alongside the Designed in Saudi initiative, which will highlight the development of the Kingdom's industrial sector and key initiatives, Saudi Arabia is hosting leading talent from the global and regional design communities at the Downtown Design Riyadh fair. In a dedicated section of the fair, collectible works and ultra-high-end design will be presented by international galleries, independent studios and manufacturers. Gallery COLLECTIONAL is showcasing limited-edition pieces by internationally recognised designers, including Christophe Delcourt, Apparatus Studio, Draga & Aurel, as well as names such as Laurids Gallée, Mario Tsai, Sabine Marcelis, Steven John Clark and Refractory. Venini's presentation includes glassworks made in collaboration with renowned names such as Michele De Lucchi and Peter Marino. Visionnaire highlights collections by designers including Alessandro La Spada and Marc Ange. Helen Chislett Gallery brings a breadth of leading design names from the UK, including works by Thomas Heatherwick, as well as pieces by Roome London, Tom Faulkner, Object Studio, and Atelier 001, while Italian textile studio Dinodo's limited-edition rugs and tapestries are making their regional debut, highlighting collaborations with renowned artists. Jordanian design duo Naqsh Collective blends contemporary aesthetics with traditional Arab craftsmanship, showcasing works that reflect cultural memory through modern form. Programme Highlights BMW Saudi Arabia will unveil a compelling spatial experience at the first-ever Downtown Design Riyadh. The BMW Lounge, a creative hospitality concept conceived by Saudi designer Amani Al-Ibrahim, Partner and Executive Director at Kristina Zanic Consultants, articulates BMW's progressive design language and ongoing dialogue with the world of design, architecture, and innovation. London-based Bompas & Parr, the creative duo known for crafting wild, immersive food experiences that blend art, science, and gastronomy, has collaborated with The Lighthouse to bring a multi-sensory experience to the fair. Delighting visitors with an offering of glow-in-the-dark sweet treats and conceptual mocktails, the pop-up concept, conceived by local design firm Laeta Interior, is influenced by the disciplined dreamers of Bauhaus. The programme also features a pop-up by Saudi specialty coffee brands Origin Roasters and Marble x Easy Bakery. Multidisciplinary studio Karim+Elias, led by Karim Tamerji and Elias Hage, is presenting Strata, a modular outdoor installation constructed from Saudi sand using the traditional rammed earth technique. Positioned in the main outdoor squares of JAX District, Strata blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, offering visitors an immersive experience that connects Riyadh's past and present. The installation highlights Karim+Elias' commitment to material-driven artistry and site-responsive design. Furthermore, the fair will spotlight architectural installations and interactive works previously commissioned by local cultural institutions, emphasising the evolving creative scene of the Kingdom. Providing an immersive, yet educational moment for visitors of all backgrounds, the Architecture and Design Commission is presenting an exhibit shedding light on its diverse initatives alongside a collaborative installation titled Narrating Woven by Ruba Al Khaldi & Lujain Rafea, while Ithra is presenting Open Segments by SYN Architects, the Iwan Pavilion, and Adeem. The fair's thought-leadership platform The Forum brings together leading voices from across the design world to explore the ideas shaping the region's creative future. Designed as a platform for dialogue and discovery, a daily programme of panel talks, will explore how collectible design is emerging as a new cultural and economic force in the Middle East, the role of graphic design in preserving and reimagining regional heritage, and what it takes to deliver design excellence at scale across Saudi Arabia's fast-developing landscape, among others. Bringing together architects, designers, and cultural thinkers from across the Kingdom and beyond, The Forum offers a timely space for insight and exchange. The fair also features a selection of hands-on workshops by Ithra, including stool-making through folding techniques, an introduction to silk screening, and a sustainability-focused session exploring edible packaging as a creative response to global waste.
Trade Arabia
20-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Downtown Design expo kicks off in Riyadh
Downtown Design Riyadh opened its doors today (May 20), marking the kingdom's first fair dedicated to contemporary, high-quality design. Set in the heart of JAX District, Riyadh's cultural quarter until May 23, the fair is held in partnership with the Architecture and Design Commission of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture. Committed to showcasing contemporary and quality design, the programme spans global brands, emerging talent from the region, and a programme activations and experiences staged throughout the district's indoor and outdoor spaces. Dr Sumayah Al Solaiman, the CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission, said: "Downtown Design Riyadh represents an important step in our efforts to build a design culture that stems from Saudi identity and engages openly with the world." "Through its diverse programmes, the exhibition focuses on this vision, bringing together the works of Saudi designers, both emerging and established, alongside prestigious international names, within a framework that supports creative production and stimulates knowledge exchange," stated Al Solaiman. "Our strategic sponsorship of the exhibition embodies our support for the sector and our goal of attracting the most prominent international exhibitions and events specialised in architecture and design, strengthening our current position and future ambitions, at a time when design is becoming a pivotal element in the Kingdom's cultural and economic landscapes," he added. At the event, Cosentino is presenting the Moon Vignettes installation by Kuwait-based Babnimnim Design Studio, Lasvit is featuring Splash, a glass lighting installation designed by Martin Gallo and Natuzzi Italia is debuting the Amama project in the region, a new double-sided modular sofa created in collaboration with Andrea Steidl. Maison Louis Drucker has launched a collaboration with digital fabrication platform TRAME and design studio ArandaLasch, merging algorithmic design with time-honoured craftsmanship. Jotun is staging an experiential colour exhibition with a local designer, while Klekktik and Assembly has joined forces in a curated display that merges modern design with iconic vintage collectibles. Making its debut at the fair, Grey Garden Plant Studio is presenting a collection of raw, handmade planters and vases. Jaipur Rugs is showcasing collections from Tatiana De Nicolay's Jardins Du Monde among others. Saint Louis is presenting Torsade, a collection created in collaboration with Italian artist Stefania Di Petrillo, while Iwan Maktabi is introducing its collaborations with Blu Architects, David / Nicolas and Roula Salamoun. Scarlet Splendour is debuting in the region with a bold presentation including pure brass pieces by Richard Hutten, and Serafini will showcase the best of Italian craftsmanship through exclusive furniture and functional design. In a multi-brand showcase, Huda Lighting is presenting leading architectural and decorative lighting brands, including Brokis, Italamp, Panzeri and Bomma while The Bowery Company is exhibiting modern Scandinavian brands Audo Copenhagen, GUBI and &Tradition. Mette Degn-Christensen, Director of Downtown Design, said: "This inaugural edition of our Riyadh fair brings together what Downtown Design does best - presenting a thoughtful mix of global brands, emerging talent and limited-edition design." "We are proud to provide a platform for quality design in a local context. From installations and collaborations, to the wider programme of activities and pop-up concepts, Saudi creatives and the local burgeoning market are an essential part of the programme, helping to forge an experience that feels both rooted and forward-looking," he added. Exhibiting Saudi-based designers include Hobal, Lucas Barcelo, and the interior design studio co-founded by Saudi designer Noura Suleiman. Their work spans architecture, product and object design, with contemporary interpretations of cultural heritage. Alongside the Designed in Saudi initiative, which will highlight the development of the Kingdom's industrial sector and key initiatives, Saudi Arabia is hosting leading talent from the global and regional design communities at the Downtown Design Riyadh fair. In a dedicated section of the fair, collectible works and ultra-high-end design will be presented by international galleries, independent studios and manufacturers. Gallery Collectional is showcasing limited-edition pieces by internationally recognised designers, including Christophe Delcourt, Apparatus Studio, Draga & Aurel, as well as names such as Laurids Gallée, Mario Tsai, Sabine Marcelis, Steven John Clark and Refractory. Venini's presentation includes glassworks made in collaboration with renowned names such as Michele De Lucchi and Peter Marino. Visionnaire highlights collections by designers including Alessandro La Spada and Marc Ange. Helen Chislett Gallery brings a breadth of leading design names from the UK, including works by Thomas Heatherwick, as well as pieces by Roome London, Tom Faulkner, Object Studio, and Atelier 001, while Italian textile studio Dinodo's limited-edition rugs and tapestries are making their regional debut, highlighting collaborations with renowned artists. Jordanian design duo Naqsh Collective blends contemporary aesthetics with traditional Arab craftsmanship, showcasing works that reflect cultural memory through modern form. Programme highlights During the event, BMW Saudi Arabia will unveil a compelling spatial experience at the first-ever Downtown Design Riyadh. The BMW Lounge, a creative hospitality concept conceived by Saudi designer Amani Al-Ibrahim, Partner and Executive Director at Kristina Zanic Consultants, articulates BMW's progressive design language and ongoing dialogue with the world of design, architecture, and innovation. London-based Bompas & Parr, the creative duo known for crafting wild, immersive food experiences that blend art, science, and gastronomy, has collaborated with The Lighthouse to bring a multi-sensory experience to the fair. Delighting visitors with an offering of glow-in-the-dark sweet treats and conceptual mocktails, the pop-up concept, conceived by local design firm Laeta Interior, is influenced by the disciplined dreamers of Bauhaus. The programme also features a pop-up by Saudi specialty coffee brands Origin Roasters and Marble x Easy Bakery. Multidisciplinary studio Karim+Elias, led by Karim Tamerji and Elias Hage, is presenting Strata, a modular outdoor installation constructed from Saudi sand using the traditional rammed earth technique. Positioned in the main outdoor squares of JAX District, Strata blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, offering visitors an immersive experience that connects Riyadh's past and present, said the organisers. The installation highlights Karim+Elias' commitment to material-driven artistry and site-responsive design. Furthermore, the fair will spotlight architectural installations and interactive works previously commissioned by local cultural institutions, emphasising the evolving creative scene of the Kingdom. Providing an immersive, yet educational moment for visitors of all backgrounds, the Architecture and Design Commission is presenting an exhibit shedding light on its diverse initatives alongside a collaborative installation titled Narrating Woven by Ruba Al Khaldi & Lujain Rafea, while Ithra is presenting Open Segments by SYN Architects, the Iwan Pavilion, and Adeem. The fair's thought-leadership platform The Forum brings together leading voices from across the design world to explore the ideas shaping the region's creative future. Designed as a platform for dialogue and discovery, a daily programme of panel talks, will explore how collectible design is emerging as a new cultural and economic force in the Middle East, the role of graphic design in preserving and reimagining regional heritage, and what it takes to deliver design excellence at scale across Saudi Arabia's fast-developing landscape, among others. Bringing together architects, designers, and cultural thinkers from across the Kingdom and beyond, The Forum offers a timely space for insight and exchange, stated the organisers.
