Founded in September 2005 by Paul Townsend from the UK, and his partner Miriam Walsh, ARTE features handmade items, or those made in the UAE.

“We got fed up with going to craft shows where 80 per cent of the items were commercial, so we decided to try running our own show,'' says Paul, who works full-time as an IT manager and makes jewellery in his spare time.

“We have over 500 members and we don't turn anybody away. It's a platform for people to be able to sell their stuff, and for those who don't want to compete with commercial products.''

Mo Hart has been a mosaic artisan for the past seven years and joined ARTE in January.

“It's great. Apart from being able to sell stuff, it's a real network of help.''

She finds inspiration in the other participating artists as she uses a variety of materials in her work, including shells, beads, tiles, glass and buttons.

Part-time painter, Paul Boldy, a general manager for an interior store, is a newcomer to the ARTE scene. He is a self-taught artist and his work has a strong Middle Eastern influence.

“This is my first exhibit. I paint for myself but it's nice to get positive feedback. I do it because I love it – whether someone likes my work is less important. The souk is brilliant. I've talked to more artists than potential clients. It's a real mix of genuine people''.

Louise Harrison, an accessories designer, has been a member since October. “I love it. Everything is handmade, that's the beauty of it. I don't like mass-produced things.''

Originally from London, she has had her work displayed in prominent fashion stores such as Harrods and Liberty. “There is too much of this shopping-mall fashion, where everything looks the same. People want something unique.''

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By Randi Sokoloff, Staff Writer

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