“Beauty is emotional and ethical today: His Excellency Rome Bin Karam on design and modern trends

Ithi’s work is deeply rooted in the heritage of water, it implements traditional techniques, such as counting embroidery, palm leaves and craft skills, transmitted from generation to generation by women of Emirates.

Nevertheless, our vision was still global, we have collaborated with the whole world of Milan in Moscow and Jordan in Shanghai; We work with international luxury designers and various institutions to rethink these professions for the modern public. Although in each country, trends differ: whether it is Scandinavian minimalism or complex conceptions in Central Asia. But there is a universal change towards stability and cultural narrative, which we have been doing for a long time and what we operate in all competitors.

For example, our Moui collection combines the count of Emirates with Spanish tanned skin using natural plant tannins instead of chemicals. At the same time, our social and inferior initiatives are expanding the capacities of women of water to Southeast Asia. In our opinion, design and production with a specific objective are the only means of development. We are proud that we are pioneers in this regard.

I am inspired by the way in which local heritage increases through a global dialogue, which becomes an understandable language. Whether it is a question of rethinking the weaving of palm leaves or the formation of a ceramist of the practices of central Asian of non-dropping production among our masters, these joint projects prove that the tradition is not limited by borders and serves as a bridge towards innovation, dignity and general progress.

Who is today interested in the IRTHI collections and what role do handmade products play in modern spaces?

Our customers are as diversified as our mission – private collectors with progressive interior designers and luxurious hotel brands. They are united by the desire for authenticity. They are not only looking for decorative objects, they are looking for stories, values ​​and meaning.

Beauty is emotional and ethical today. It goes beyond the scope of the form to reflect who we are and what we defend. Our collections embody the inheritance, stability and expansion of women’s rights and abilities. It does not matter that they are located in the house, the gallery or the hall of the hotel, our products fill not only the space – they give it the soul. They remind people that beauty can be determined or personal.

Do you have any things you are proud of? What attracts you to them?

I am very proud of the realization of the vision of his Highness Sheikhi Javaher Bint Mohammed Al Kasimi, the founder and president of the Irhi modern craftsmanship. We promote artisanal design and crafts as an instrument for social development and cultural exchange, for example, our BIDVA social development program has widened the capacities of more than 1000 craft women. These guards of discoloration of traditions are now the leaders of their profession, and our support and our leadership have enabled them to combine original skills with modern entrepreneurship.

I am inspired by projects in which the inheritance meets humanity, and when a grandmother, who teaches safe weaving, sees how her technique is redesigned in the slaughter of Milan lamp. Its pride goes beyond generations, and its history responds in echo in time. Our works go far beyond the scope of products and become bridges between dignity and innovation, proving that the profession can raise communities, simultaneously captivating the world.

Traditional art is an increasing trend. Does he remain intact or does he adapt to the present?

I believe that tradition flourishes when it develops, but at the same time, it is important to maintain authenticity and to be true and respectful for those who have transmitted their skills, their knowledge and their methods. At Irthi, we relate to inheritance as a compass, and not as anchor, it is important for us to accept technologies and innovations, but never to prevent our values, traditions and our workers.

Regarding stability and practices concerned with the environment, modern innovations are often simply a repeated discovery and rethinking ancient knowledge. Whether the use of local plants to create natural dyes or rethink objects and methods in a modern design language, tradition is a powerful force, and we can all learn from it.

What lessons have you learned from your creative leadership path?

In work, I learned that difficulties often carry the seeds of insight. One of the first lessons was the underestimation of the narrative power. Without history, even the most refined part may seem torn off.

In Irhi, each creation is based on its origin – a woman who woven it, the environment that formed it and the values ​​that inspired it. The history of stories brings depth and meaning. This enriches not only the buyer’s experience, but also creates the pride of our communities. This is the essence of everything we do.