• French luxury brands Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès and more will collaborate with local artisans to promote cross-cultural dialogue between France and the UAE

Abu Dhabi: – Today, Al Hosn’s House of Artisans, the centre dedicated to the intangible heritage of the UAE, launched its workshop series in collaboration with the French luxury association Comité Colbert. Entitled Savoir-faire Conversations, the series forms part of a wider partnership between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), and Comité Colbert. The Flânerie Colbert Abu Dhabi, French Luxury in the 21st Century event is a unique partnership exploring 21st century French luxury and the growing interchange between French and Emirati culture.

The official launch of the series was attended by HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, HE Saif Saeed Ghobash, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, HE Ludovic Pouille, Ambassador of France to the UAE, Elisabeth Ponsolle des Portes, President and CEO of Comité Colbert, and Guillaume de Seynes, Chairman of Comité Colbert.

The workshops will run from 12 – 28 November and will feature French luxury houses including Dior, Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Van Cleef & Arpels, amongst others, as well as local Emirati artisans conversing and collaborating on their respective crafts. The workshops and conversations will cover Emirati crafts such as Al Sadu, Bisht making, Arabic calligraphy, Gahwa, Khoos, Talli, Gargoor and Khanjar-making alongside French techniques such as embroidery, gastronomy, silversmithing and leathercraft, among others. The two-week event will also feature talks, demonstrations, illustrative videos and masterclasses to supplement the artisan experiences.

HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “We are thrilled to witness the progress that House of Artisans has achieved since its opening in December last year. Some of the main objectives are coming to fruition including an exciting pairing between Emiratis and French luxury brands designers and artisans through the Savoir-faire Conversations. It is through safeguarding the past that we can protect the future, and through this series of workshops, talks and demonstrations, not only can we empower people and build skills, but also enhance a deeper understanding of the UAE’s intangible heritage among citizens, residents and visitors. This will help to showcase how an ancient tradition can survive and prosper through the power of creative collaboration.”

“As a collective body representing French luxury, Comité Colbert makes a point of entering into dialogue with the cultures of countries in which it holds events. The Flânerie Colbert Abu Dhabi programme at the House of Artisans is emblematic of this approach, unique in the world,” added Ponsolle des Portes. “The different aspects of the Flânerie Colbert Abu Dhabi reflect the personality of French luxury – a combination of intangible craft heritage with creativity – and resonate harmoniously with Emirati culture.”

Workshops and Demonstrations 

A Conversation about Travel and Poetry: Louis Vuitton & Fine Calligraphy

Louis Vuitton has always excelled in the art of transforming the desires of its travel-loving clients into reality. From the 12 – 15 November, members of the public can attend a demonstration by an expert Louis Vuitton painter who will show guests how she paints, upon request, any kind of image, design or logo on the surface of hard-sided trunks. Meanwhile an Emirati calligrapher will demonstrate the fine art of Arabic calligraphy, reflecting on the development of this art form from its Islamic roots to the modern freestyle techniques and representations.

A Conversation about Metamorphosis: The Lady Dior Bag and Gargoor

Representatives from Christian Dior will reveal the secrets to creating their iconic Lady Dior bag while collaborating with Al-Gargoor creators, from 12 - 16 November. The prestigious Lady Dior bag has been an iconic, inexhaustible source of inspiration, and the embodiment of a savior-faire masterpiece since 2011. Al-gargoor is a type of basket trap used by fishermen in shallow UAE waters and was originally created with woven date palm fronds.

A Conversation about Precious and Meticulous: Van Cleef & Arpels Mystery Set and Royal Bisht

On 12,15, and 16 November, Van Cleef & Arpels will host a demonstration of their patented Mystery Set alongside a demonstration of the creation of the Royal Bisht, a traditional, intricately embroidered garment worn by men in the UAE, Gulf states and other parts of the Arab world. The Van Cleef & Arpels Mystery Set technique involves setting stones in such a way that no prongs are visible. Only a few master jewellers – called Mains d’Or – know how to master the Mystery Set.  The Bisht, on the other hand, incorporates several distinct design and aesthetic elements to reflect social status. It is also a symbol of formality worn on special occasions, at celebrations and official functions. The fabric is made from finely spun goat and camel hair, although occasionally, cotton and silk are used. 

A Conversation about Savior-faire and Creativity: Lesage embroidery and the art of Al-Sadu

From 12 – 21 November, the House of Lesage, the illustrious and innovative embroider owned by Chanel and known for its attention to detail, will hold a workshop with Al-Sadu artisans. Al-Sadu is a traditional form of distinctive weaving, passed down through generations of Bedouin women that reflects social identity and the surrounding environments. In 2016 Al-Sadu was placed onto the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.

A Conversation about Hospitality: Chocolate by Le Bristol Paris and Gahwa

On 13 November, chocolatier Hôtel Bristol will hold a demonstration with an expert from Bait Al Gahwa—an initiative by DCT Abu Dhabi that aims to document and safeguard an essential element of Emirati culture. Gahwa is an Emirati hospitality ceremony that celebrates the authentic customs of making coffee and experiencing coffee through different senses. Le Bristol is known for its dedication to indulgence and was created by Julien Alvarez and Johan Giacchetti, two people self-described as being obsessed with the perfect chocolate.

A Conversation about Culture: Hermès Saddler and Al-Sadu Saddler

An Al-Sadu saddler and an artisan Hermès saddler from the historic Paris workshop will collaborate for a demonstration on the 13th and 14th of November. Hermès saddles draw on nearly two centuries of leather goods and equestrian savoir-faire. Each saddle is entrusted to a single artisan and crafted by hand with the finest leathers and saddle-stitching, creating a unique work of art in every piece. On the other hand, the camel saddle is called ‘shadad’ in the Emirati dialect. The shadad is made of Sidr wood and is strong and durable but light enough for the camel to carry it with ease.

A Conversation about Sophisticated Threads: Guerlain Perfumes and Talli

Talli artisans and ‘table-ladies’ from the French perfumery Guerlain will demonstrate their magical know-how on 27 November. Recognised as a “Living Heritage Company” by the French Ministry for Economy and Industry, Maison Guerlain is known for using age-old techniques and rituals to create intricate works of art out of every perfume bottle. Talli is a traditional form of decorative embroidery practiced by Emirati women to decorate collars, sleeves and hems of kandoora and thawb with elaborate designs. The craft is time-consuming and complex, taking an entire day to create one metre of Talli.

A Conversation about the Transmission of Know-How: Puiforcat Silversmithing and Khanjar decorating

On 27 and 28 November, an Emirati artisan and Parisian silverware brand Puiforcat will engage in discussion and demonstration about silversmithing techniques and the fabrication of the traditional Khanjar dagger. Puiforcat is one of the only workshops in France that continues to practice the metalworking technique called planishing. They rely on the exceptional know-how of its master craftsmen to recreate the finest pieces of its heritage, while imagining tomorrow’s classics. On the Emirati side, Emirati artisans will demonstrate to decorate dagger handles with silver threads—a craft inspired by Arab culture and tradition, with distinctive elements of Emirati creative heritage. It is carried as a symbol of honour, chivalry, courage and strength. Until recently it was an integral part of the Emirati man’s traditional dress, worn on a leather belt on the outside of his traditional robes.

Talks and Presentations 

When French talent and expertise uncovers a Napoleon III masterpiece; the restoration of the Imperial Theatre Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan – 13 November, 7pm

Vincent Cochet, Chief Curator of the Chȃteau de Fontainbleau, and Amel Chabbi, Conservation Manager at DCT Abu Dhabi, will report on the restoration of the Imperial theatre of the Chȃteau de Fontainbleau, a unique partnership and project completed this year with the generous patronage of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who gave his name to the theatre. 

Embroidery, a talk about and creativity - 14 November, 7pm

Hubert Barrère, Artistic Director of The House of Lesage, will present the savoir-faire of the illustrious embroiderer. Inventor of many techniques, every season the embroiderer of art reveals the scope of its expertise for Chanel Haute Couture and Ready-to-Wear collections. 

Transmission of savoir-faire, an asset of French luxury - 15 November, 7pm

The Secretary General of Comité Colbert, Valérie Sandoz, will discuss how transmission of the intangible heritage of Savior-Faire is a key element for French luxury houses and how Comité Colbert acts collectively to foster vocations and attract new recruits. 

Embroidery, a Savoir-Faire for Haute Couture – 19 November, 7pm

CEO Alexandre Boquel will present Maison Vermont, which creates luxurious embroideries for Haute Couture. Created in 1956, the team is composed of highly skilful designers and embroiderers working for the most prestigious brands such as Dior, Vuitton, Fendi, Givenchy, Valentino, Armani and more. 

Bernardaud Porcelain, an emblematic Savior-Faire in Limoges – 21 November, 7pm

Hélène Huret, Communication Director of Bernardaud, will present the French porcelain company founded in 1863 in Limoges, an historical city for porcelain and enamelling. Still family-owned, the brand has always striven for excellence, quality and precision, being an expert in art de la table but also devoting its knowledge to jewellery and furniture. 

The savoir-faire of Chȃteau de Versailles – 22 November, 7pm

Catherine Pégard, President of Chȃteau and the domain of Versailles, will present the various savoir-faire that the Chȃteau de Versailles, the unequalled achievement of Louis XIV’s, still develops and transmits. 

Mobilier National, the savoir-faire in historical manufatures – 24 November, 7pm

Thierry Sarmant, Chief Curator, will offer a look at the exceptional métiers d’arts of Mobilier National-Gobelins, in charge of furnishing French state buildings such as l’Elysée, ministries, embassies, national palaces and châteaux.

House of Artisans is a focal point for the celebration, promotion and preservation of the intangible heritage of the United Arab Emirates. It represents a coordinated effort to protect and bring the traditional Emirati crafts of the past to the heart of contemporary culture, offering training courses, educational workshops and other public events.

Comité Colbert was created in 1954 by 15 prominent visionaries seeking to translate French style into economic strength and international influence. Today, Colbert is comprised of 84 French luxury houses and 16 cultural institutions, all of whom work to create a business environment conducive to the collective and individual growth of French brands.

Comité Colbert and DCT Abu Dhabi have teamed up for a series of demonstrations, presentations, and special events across the city to demonstrate the growing dialogue between French luxury, French culture and Emirati culture. Flânerie Colbert Abu Dhabi, French Luxury in the 21st Century will take place from 12 November to 14 December. In addition to House of Artisans at the Al Hosn site, there will be events at Louvre Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Maryah Island and at the annual Abu Dhabi Art Fair.

-Ends-

For press enquiries, please contact:
Sana Yamlikha
Brunswick Arts
Tel: +971 50 554 7349
E: syamlikha@brunswickgroup.com 

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF CULTURE AND TOURISM – ABU DHABI

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi conserves and promotes the heritage and culture of Abu Dhabi emirate and leverages them in the development of a world-class, sustainable destination of distinction, which enriches the lives of visitors and residents alike. The organisation manages the emirate’s tourism sector and markets the destination internationally through a wide range of activities aimed at attracting visitors and investment. Its policies, plans and programs relate to the preservation of heritage and culture, including protecting archaeological and historical sites and to developing museums, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. DCT - Abu Dhabi supports intellectual and artistic activities and cultural events to nurture a rich cultural environment and honour the emirate’s heritage.  A key role is to create synergy in the destination’s development through close co-ordination with its wide-ranging stakeholder base.

© Press Release 2019

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