The Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), in collaboration with the L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts, announced Emirati designers Asma Almarri and Media Alfalasi as the winners of the ADMAF Design Fund 2022.
Media Alfalasi and Asma Almarri at the L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts in Paris
The prize rewards the emerging creatives with a Dhs50,000 grant. In addition, they were awarded a five-day trip to Paris to attend courses led by master craftsmen in high jewellery creation at the L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts.
Upon winning the prestigious award, Media said, “It’s a priority to raise awareness about various matters through my projects. Life is an adventure, and beauty is everywhere! Function is beauty just as much as form, but combining the two is an art. I’m excited to see how far I go in the design field.”
Media Alfalasi at the L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts in Paris
As part of the programme, Asma and Media received training that focused on developing a comprehensive understanding of gemology, which will further enhance their approach towards art and design. “I’m looking forward to learning more in depth about jewellery design and the different interpretations of emotions that jewellery could bring to a person,” stated Asma.
Asma Almarri at the L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts in Paris
“Since its inception nearly three decades ago, the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation has nurtured the creative spirit of our nation’s youth, and with the ADMAF Design Fund Award supported by L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts, we continue our longstanding commitment to rewarding excellence and cultivating passion in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation in the arts,” said Her Excellency Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, founder of ADMAF.
“We’re pleased to support talented Emirati jewellery designers Asma Almarri and Media Alfalasi whose winning work ‘Osha’ pays tribute to Emirati heritage, as they embark on an educational journey to Paris to enhance their skills, realize their dreams, and jumpstart their professional careers,” she noted.
Launched in 2019, the award provides training and mentorship to help young jewellery designers gain the skills they need to make a mark in the industry.