A cultural activity for the weekend in the UAE? Sharjah-based contemporary design  studio 1971 Design Space has announced the exhibition Fashcultivate, which will take place on 2 November at the location. The show has been curated by Khulood Thani and Fatma Al Mahmoud, Head of 1971 – Design Space, and will feature works by creatives that take a cue from the date palm as a symbol of the UAE and its national treasure. 

Khulood Thani

The initiative brings together a stellar mix of artists and designers from the region, including Emirati designers Khalid Mezaina, Asma Al Mazrouie, Maryam Omaira and Hessa Al Suwaidi, and Faissal El Malak, Shahd Al Shehail and Hala Kaiksow from countries including Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The creatives were commissioned to create contemporary design and textile pieces, referencing the date palm’s functions and structures.

As a part of the show, the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council has also commissioned research, directed by the curators and conducted by Dr Sandra Piesik, to explore the use of sustainable materials, fabricated out of the date palm, to encourage the development of climate-friendly production. The idea is to utilize modern technology and contemporary art to reconnect with the 7,000-year-old date palm and its cultural relevance.