Irthi takes part in Maison D’exceptions
SHARJAH: Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council (Irthi), an affiliate of Nama Women Advancement Establishment ( Nama), has unveiled its 2020-21 Experimental Talli Collection, featuring an inspiring selection of new materials and creative weaves, at the exclusive Maison D’exceptions exhibition held as part of the internationally renowned Première Vision Paris, a global event for fashion professionals.
Launched Feb 11, the new collection highlights Irthi’s extraordinary capacity for reintroducing a traditional craft as it successfully adapts ancestral Emirati techniques to reflect contemporary trends, infusing it with diverse colour palettes and materials.
In line with its commitment to preserve and elevate the crafts of the region, for 2020-21, Irthi has produced over 30 new designs incorporating pearls, leather and rope of experimental Talli, a traditional Emirati craft of handwoven braids, to ensure the craft’s continuity in the contemporary fashion and textile markets.
The sole entry from the Arab region, this is Irthi’s second consecutive participation at Première Vision Paris following its debut last year in February 2019 where it presented traditional and contemporary Emirati Talli at Maison D’exceptions.
According to Reem Binkaram, Director of Nama, “Irthi’s participation at Maison D’exceptions is part of its ongoing mission to showcase an intangible heritage of the UAE and the latent skills and talents of our artisans on an international design-led platform that honours technique, craftsmanship, innovation and artistic vision. It also helps further Irthi’s mandate of empowering women through greater access to new markets and opportunities to thrive in the global economy.”
She added: “Empowering women artisans is
Irthi’s core focus, which is in line with the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of Nama, Founder and Royal Patron of Irthi.