Irthi launches pop-up space for UAE designers in London
Project will showcase work of 10 designers in one of city’s luxury department stores
Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council launched its popup retail space in collaboration with luxury store Fenwick of Bond Street, in London on Tuesday.
Shaikha Jawaher Bint Mohammad Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, said: “Investment in the potential of young talent in Sharjah and the UAE is an absolute priority for the emirate’s cultural vision, laid out by the Ruler of Sharjah.
“It is essential that support is given and every opportunity is taken for them to make their mark on the world stage.”
Shaikha Jawaher is also the chairperson of Nama Women Advancement Establishment, and royal patron of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council.
The launch was attended by Sulaiman Al Mazroui, UAE Ambassador to the UK; Reem Bin Karam, director of NAMA Women Advancement Establishment; and Leo Fenwick from Fenwick of Bond Street.
Featuring the works of 10 UAE-based designers in one of London’s luxury department stores, the collaboration provides the designers with space to create a lasting impression on potential customers, and communicate their brands to an ideal target audience.
The designers have created labels inspired by the rich heritage and environment of the UAE and the Middle East, showcasing fashion designs, jewellery, and porcelain collections for the two-month duration of the pop-up store.
“Since its inception, Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council has worked to provide a creative platform for talented UAE designers in traditional and contemporary crafts, and promote their brands both regionally and internationally,” Bin Karam said.
Participating designers include Madiyah Al Sharqi, a women’s wear label designed by Shaikha Madiyah Bint Hamad Al Sharqi; Designed by Hind, a fine porcelain collection influenced by Emirati traditional crafts created by Shaikha Hind Majid Al Qasimi; Amal Haliq, a jewellery designer who adds her own take on fairytales and heritage crafts; Aliah Bin Omair, a jewellery artist inspired by the heritage and raw materials of the Middle East; and Align, a contemporary women’s wear brand created by Sara Mahmoud and Asma Mustafa.
Other designers include IAMMAI, a women’s wear label by Mai Al Budoor, and inspired by palm trees; Twisted Roots, a travel wear brand founded by Latifa Al Gurg; Neon Edge, a label created by Mona Fares; Faissal El-Malak, a designer who incorporates fabrics handwoven by artisans from the Mena region; and Zayan the Label.