Reem BinKaram, Director-General of the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, stresses that the Council’s approach has enabled women to develop highly skilled craftsmanship that bridges history with contemporary innovation
The Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, established in 2018, is an influential model that merges heritage craftsmanship with modern innovation, empowering women and girls in the creative industries. Its mission is to create a transformative platform for women to thrive in the crafts sector, contributing to both cultural preservation and economic growth. By blending traditional skills with advanced techniques, the Council has become a driving force for gender equality and economic empowerment, not just in the UAE, but globally.
Reem BinKaram, Director-General of the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, stresses that the Council’s approach has enabled women to develop highly skilled craftsmanship that bridges history with contemporary innovation. As a result, Irthi has become an inspiration for women’s institutions and communities, providing a robust platform for empowerment. BinKaram explains, “At Irthi, we strive to achieve equality and equal opportunities in sectors that lie at the core of global sustainable development goals, particularly in promoting economic growth, preserving tangible and cultural heritage, and ensuring women’s participation in creative industries.”
Since its inception, Irthi has focused on empowering women artisans by offering advanced skills training, market access, and recognition within the global design landscape. The Council has successfully created a space where women can maintain their cultural identity while also making a significant impact in the global artisan and craftsmanship labor market. This unique combination of economic and social empowerment ensures that women play an active role in the preservation and promotion of their heritage.
BinKaram further elaborates on the Council’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of all artisans involved in the production process. “We focus on ensuring equality in the treatment of creators at every stage of production,” she notes. “This is one of the most important forms of equality that artisans should experience in their work.” With this vision, Irthi provides fair compensation, training, and support to women artisans, encouraging them to build sustainable businesses while preserving their rich cultural traditions.
While Irthi’s roots are firmly planted in the UAE, the Council has managed to achieve international recognition and build an impressive global network. Through collaborations with designers and artisans from various countries—including Jordan, Italy, and Pakistan—Ithri has facilitated the exchange of expertise and the transfer of knowledge in areas such as design, manufacturing, management, and marketing. These partnerships help elevate the artisans’ work on a global scale, introducing new ideas, practices, and techniques that blend global trends with traditional craftsmanship.
One of the most notable platforms for Irthi’s global exposure is its participation in Design Miami – Shanghai, a prestigious international design fair where the Council presented its work to a global audience. The showcased pieces, which reflect the richness of Emirati and Arab heritage through a contemporary lens, exemplified the fusion of tradition with modernity. In addition, the Council’s innovative work was highlighted at London Design Festival, one of the world’s largest design exhibitions, where Irthi displayed an exclusive collection of 78 artistic pieces including jewelry, decor, furniture, and bags. This international exposure has not only enhanced the visibility of Emirati crafts but also paved the way for future collaborations and opportunities for artisans.
Irthi’s participation in Milan Design Week in both 2022 and 2023 further solidified its place in the global design community. Milan Design Week is one of the most significant events in the global arts and design calendar, offering a platform for avant-garde design and innovative artistic expressions. Through these events, Irthi showcased its commitment to blending tradition with innovation, creating a space for the world to experience the beauty and relevance of Emirati craftsmanship in a modern context.
In addition to Milan and London, the Council also participated in Doha Design Week, a unique platform dedicated to contemporary Arab design. This event allowed Irthi to connect with regional designers and artists, strengthening its position as a key player in the Arab design community. By participating in such globally recognized events, Irthi is not only promoting Emirati and Arab craftsmanship but also championing the role of women in shaping the future of design.
The success of the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council highlights the potential of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres pointed out, “Equality in non-traditional sectors means not only justice but also a lever for growth and progress. Societies that promote diversity are better able to innovate and adapt to the future.” Irthi’s work proves this point, showing that women’s involvement in creative and heritage industries can drive cultural preservation, economic growth, and social development.
Today, Irthi stands as a beacon of empowerment, showcasing the immense potential of women to lead in both heritage and contemporary crafts. Through its commitment to equality, education, and global collaboration, the Council continues to pave the way for future generations of women artisans, ensuring that their work remains relevant in a rapidly changing world while honoring the traditions that define their culture. By giving women the tools to succeed, Irthi is not only preserving the past but also shaping the future of craftsmanship on a global scale.
