Sharjah: Artists from the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council’s showcased UAE’s traditional crafts to the public during the 15th edition of Sharjah Heritage Days across various locations from April 8-12.
The Bidwa Social Development Programme, part of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, presented the region’s craft making skills to communities across Sharjah through a variety of workshops and Heritage Week activities.
The council aims to introduce both children and adults to their cultural legacy and illustrate the crafts within a modern context and its potential as a viable business sector.
The Bidwa Social Development Programme employed 40 craftswomen in Dibba Al Hisn, and provided vocational training to empower women economically, professionally, and socially. The programme promotes the revival and modernisation of traditional crafts, and helps women who work in the industry to find new markets for their skills.
Reem Bin Karam, director of NAMA Women Advancement Establishment, the organisation which oversees Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, believes traditional skills and modern practices can work in perfect harmony.
“Presenting these skills, particularly to young people, enables us to showcase many of the exciting projects and products the Bidwa craftswomen have worked on and how there is strong demand globally for their skills. It also highlights how the continued practice of the heritage crafts can create a dignified, respected and sustainable way of life,” she said.
The participation at events across Sharjah includes the demonstrations of ‘Talli’, a traditional type of Emirati woven braid and Safeefah palm weaving alongside a display of products showcasing the skills of Bidwa craftswomen. “While many Emiratis are aware of their heritage, it is different when they witness it first-hand, and grasp its complexity, and the fact that it has a renewed relevance in today’s society,” said Bin Karam.
