Crafting artistic narratives with depth and diversity, Wafa Al Falahi is one of the country’s most-talked-about artists. A creative and interior designer, Wafa’s work transcends conventional boundaries, blending art, science, and culture into a unique personal style. Her multidisciplinary approach to creativity, along with her connection to her roots, means she’s handcrafting the Emirate’s next chapter.
Wafa established her own practice, Sorbe Studios, in February, as a multidisciplinary design studio that not only offers creative solutions but also manufactures products. Along with this, she finds time to work on her own personal projects in the evenings, using varying mediums such as clay and pencil.
As with many artists, her journey began in her childhood, where she found companionship in her drawings. “I grew up being the only child so it was easier for me to have a creative outlet to let out my emotions to,” she recalls. These early scribbles were more than just doodles, “they were my friends”, she laughs. Keeping a scrapbook-style journal for most of her life, Wafa’s instinctive connection to art laid the foundation for her lifelong passion that evolved into her career and a penchant for materials.
One of the most significant influences on Wafa’s work today is her culture. Her project, Roots, created during her time with Tashkeel, is a tribute to her grandmother and the rituals they shared. The piece, which involved the use of henna as a biomaterial, was not just a personal exploration.
“I think, within my practice, this was truly one of the first few times I was able to incorporate something that means a lot to me, but that also means a lot to other people,” Wafa reflects. “Displaying this piece at Dubai Design Week was a moment of pride – it not only honoured my grandmother but the history of Emirati women.”
Wafa’s exploration of materials is another key aspect of her creative process. She began working with clay during university and was drawn to the medium because of its ability to “hold memory.” While her initial experiences with pottery were challenging, her persistence led to a deeper understanding of the material and its properties. “The way I dealt with clay before is not the same way that I deal with it now. Over time, I developed a certain kind of understanding of what it wants to do itself,” she explains. This respect for the intrinsic qualities of materials extends to all aspects of her work, influencing her approach to design.
As she continues to evolve as an artist, Wafa’s work remains deeply connected to her nationality and personal experiences. Whether it is through ceramics, furniture design, or interior spaces, her creations are imbued with a sense of place and identity. “Being an Emirati woman helped me develop that kind of language,” she says, acknowledging the impact of her surroundings on her work.
Looking to the future, Wafa has ambitious goals. She hopes to pursue a master’s degree and dreams of one day becoming a professor, a role that would allow her to share her knowledge and passion with the next generation.
In the meantime, she continues to build her portfolio and participate in programmes that foster the growth of young artists contributing to the UAE’s rich tapestry of art.
Her journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and her work offers a unique perspective that is both deeply personal and resonant with the wider community. As she continues to push the boundaries of art and design, Wafa’s story serves as an inspiration to young creatives in the region. Her advice to them: “Take a risk and don’t fear failure. Every mistake matters – they get you one step closer to the right answer.”
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Creative direction and words: Sophia Dyer
Photography: Žiga Mihelčič
Styling: Chloe Louise
Hair and make-up: Iryna Soltaninia
Assistant: Marie Meyer
