Sharjah: The NAMA Women Advancement Establishment affiliate Irthi Modern Crafts Council made substantial progress in 2022 towards its goals of preserving and reviving traditional UAE crafts and assisting the neighbourhood artisan community.
The number of people who benefited from the council’s programs increased by 300 percent in 2022 compared to the previous year, and thousands of people benefited from 60 training programs and workshops led by well-known worldwide designers. In addition, Irthi worked with top international brands to conduct art exhibitions in the emirate and took centre stage at many design fairs throughout the globe.
In 2022 compared to the previous year, the number of people who benefited from the council’s programs climbed by 300 percent, and thousands of people profited from 60 training programs and workshops led by well-known international designers. Irthi also collaborated with premier international brands to organize art exhibitions in the emirate and claimed the spotlight at numerous design shows across the world.
Ms. Reem bin Karam, Director of the Nama Foundation for the Advancement of Women, remarked that, “Irthi saw remarkable growth in 2022, marked by a significant increase in the number of participants in its programs and training workshops. These achievements demonstrate a commitment to growing the number of beneficiaries and highlight the council’s success in preserving traditional craft heritage, infusing it with modern design techniques, and revitalising the UAE’s artisan community through integrated initiatives that bridge the gap between art and livelihood. This, in turn, ensures a sustainable source of income for the artisans.”
“The successful outcome of irthi’s programs and training workshops for artisans has been apparent in the presence of their products on global platforms and galleries. This not only highlights the significance and worth of cultural heritage but also showcases the success of its integration into the contemporary crafts industry, thereby promoting the traditional UAE arts and crafts and honing trainees’ skill sets in designing and producing high-quality crafts that are fit to be showcased at international exhibitions. These efforts contribute to artisans’ growth and build self-confidence and professional abilities that reflect their cultural identity,” Ms. Bin Karam added.