regional talent

Subterms

    Latest story

    125 Shares

    How this Emirati artist and designer merges heritage with modernity

    by

    Fashion

    by Camille Macawili
    3 hours ago

    With a honed eye and innate artistic sensibility, Emirati artist and designer Yasmin Al Mulla bridges the gap between heritage and modernity across her creative disciplines.
    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
    My morning routine is a revitalising start to each day. I begin by drinking 500ml of water to hydrate and refresh my body. After a refreshing shower and skincare routine, I savour a warm matcha while planning my day and checking messages. This ritual energises me, ensuring I’m ready to take on whatever the day brings before I head to the office.
    What is your design philosophy and how do you approach it?
    My design philosophy revolves around creating meaningful and impactful pieces that resonate with people on a personal level. I believe that design should not only be visually appealing, but also tell a story and evoke emotions. Drawing inspiration from the captivating culture of the UAE and the Middle East, my art creations seamlessly blend with the remarkable legacy of the brands I collaborate with. I make sure my work pays homage to the UAE while embracing and merging with the rich Emirati culture. Infused with a profound appreciation for the surrounding beauty and the intricate details found in traditional Emirati art and design, my vision encompasses a contemporary and artistic approach, resulting in elevated and luxurious art and fashion.

    Where does your creative process as a fashion designer start?
    My creative process as a fashion designer and artist starts with inspiration. This could come from nature, art, occasion, architecture, or personal experiences or anything in between. I sketch and brainstorm ideas, exploring different concepts and styles. Next, I research and develop my ideas, considering materials, techniques, and practicality.

    Are you more intuitive or more analytical when designing? How do you balance the creative and commercial sides of the business, and do you feel more drawn to one over the other?
    In my design process, creativity is key. I balance intuition and analysis, believing that thinking things through enhances creativity. When managing my two companies, YNM (the clothing label) and Yasmin Al Mulla Design Firm (the art firm), creativity is my focus. While the commercial side is important for business, I prioritise creativity as the driver of innovation and uniqueness.

    Is it sometimes difficult to then translate those inspirations and ideas to a larger team?
    Sometimes, translating inspirations and ideas to a larger team can be challenging. However, I never pay much attention to the difficulties as long as I have the passion and drive to pursue my vision.
    Who do you look up to when it comes to aesthetics?
    When it comes to aesthetics, I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, includ- ing nature, architecture, and cultural influences. I admire the way these elements effortlessly blend form and function, creating beauty and harmony in their own unique way.
    Is travelling regularly also an important aspect of your creative process?
    Absolutely, travelling regularly is an important aspect of my creative process. Experiencing new cultures, landscapes, and ways of life provides me with fresh perspectives and inspires new ideas.
    Have you always been a creative soul in this way?
    Yes, I have always been a creative soul. From a young age, I have been drawn to art, design, and expressing myself creatively in various forms. This passion has stayed with me throughout my life and continues to drive me in my work today.
    How do you curate a creative environment for yourself – are there mindfulness tools and practices that help you fuel your creativity?
    Creating a beautiful environment for my creativity is crucial. I achieve this by curating inspiring spaces in my home and office and surrounding myself with meaningful sources of inspiration and intriguing objects. Additionally, I use mindfulness techniques to enhance my creativity. Activities like working out and practising pilates, and yoga help me clear my mind, improve my focus, and access my inner creativity.

    “I aim to bridge both cultures, creating connections that celebrate and honour the rich heritage of the UAE while embracing the global influences that inspire me”

    You’ve had multiple inter-industry collaborations. What’s on the horizon for YNM and for yourself?
    YNM (the clothing label) and Yasmin Al Mulla Design Firm (the art firm) are two different entities, and I am pleased with the direction each company is taking. YNM continues to innovate in the fashion industry, while Yasmin Al Mulla Design Firm focuses on bespoke creative projects. My ultimate goal with my collaborations has always been, and will continue to be, to connect the beauty of international brands with the legacy of my culture. I aim to bridge both cultures, creating connections that celebrate and honour the rich heritage of the UAE while embracing the global influences that inspire me.
    This is The Creativity Issue – how do you push yourself out of your creative comfort zone?
    In the world of creativity, artists often step beyond their boundaries to explore new mediums and techniques to expand their creative footprint.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    May’s – The Creativity Issue with Tiffany & Co. – Download Now
    Images: Supplied  More

    More stories

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Designer Haya Jarrar on her creative process and launching her first-ever home collection

      by

      Lifeby Camille Macawili1 min ago VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGESA born creative, Haya Jarrar, founder and Creative Director of Romani and Romani Home, shares her path that led to a new design pursuit of launching a home collection.Tap the gallery above for a peek inside the House of Romani showroom by Haya Jarrar.What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?It really depends on my mood. Sometimes I wake up and have my break- fast and then start reply- ing to emails. Other times I meditate or go straight to the beach and start tanning before I go ahead with my day.What pillars of DNA define Romani as a brand and what inspired you to launch Romani Home?What inspired me to launch Romani home is 1) my obsession with interiors and furniture and 2) it was when I started designing my house and designing furniture for it, that’s when I knew I was ready for the launch of Romani home.How many pieces did you launch with and how has it been received?I launched with a lot of pieces. It’s not a small collection and people fell in love from the day we launched.Where does your creative process as an interior designer start?It really depends. It starts with client interactions sometimes or space planning or even my sources of inspiration.In terms of design, what’s more important, having good ideas or having the confidence to put forward your ideas whether they’re perceived good or bad?What’s a good idea without confidence? I think they go hand in hand.Is it sometimes difficult to then translate those inspirations and ideas to a larger team?Of course, sometimes no one gets your vision besides you.What was it that drew you to work in design in the first place?I think it’s something that I was born with… I love creating, and I’m always thinking of new creations in my head – nonstop literally! I think I was born to design.Who do you look up to when it comes to aesthetics?I love Gabriella Crespi – she’s someone I look up to!The Romani Home showroom adds to Dubai’s growing design landscape. Are there bespoke services being offered currently?Yes, I opened this showroom with the intention for people to visit and immerse themselves in the pieces, gaining an understanding of my vision. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the items, customise as they please, and truly experience the space. Appointments are required for this personalised service, which will be available at all times.What are your potential blocks and how do you overcome this?Just keep moving forward and stay motivated.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramMay’s – The Creativity Issue with Tiffany & Co. – Download NowImages: Supplied  More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      International Women’s Day 2023: 5 Netflix Shows Amplifying Women’s Voices

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Camille Macawili
      31 mins ago

      International Women’s Day is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on where we are, and where we need to be.
      Seeing one show can have a powerful effect when you see yourself represented and reflected on screen, it gives power to your experience.
      Many of these are part of Netflix’s International Women’s Month Collection, which aims to highlight the voices of women behind and in front of the camera. Top tip: also look out for the “Strong Arab Women” and “Arab Women Behind the Camera” rows in the collection.
      Emirates Woman shares five Netflix shows made by Arab women that feature strong female leads that we recommend adding to your watch list.
      The Exchange

      Inspired by actual events, two women set out to pioneer the cutthroat stock market of 1980s Kuwait — and disrupt its corrupt boys’ club along the way. The Exchange brings to life the glorious 1980s when the stock market was booming and fashion was bigger and brighter than ever before. It brought on a unique and untold women-centric story of Farida and Munira to screens across the world with a star-studded cast of Kuwaiti talent.
      The Swimmers

      Based on real-life events, this inspiring and heartfelt movie tells the story of two young sisters, Yusra and Sara Mardini who embark on a risky voyage – from war-torn Syria to the 2016 Rio Olympics, putting their heart and swimming skills to heroic use. Real-life sisters Nathalie and Manal Issa were cast in the roles of Yusra and Sara Mardini respectively, and the film is directed by Welsh-Egyptian Director Sally El Hosaini.
      Finding Ola

      Finding Ola tells the story of a divorced mom who embarks on a journey of self-discovery while dealing with the challenges of raising two children and making ends meet. The Eat Pray Love meets Raising Helen made it to the Top 10 after launch and with a season 2 in the pipeline.
      The show tackles the nuances of mother-daughter relationships, friendships, second chances and self-discovery, with Hend Sabry playing the role of Ola Abdelsabour and debuting as executive producer.
      Whispers

      Breaking the glass ceiling all the way is Whispers, a first-of-its-kind Saudi Arabian thriller series led by award-winning director, Hana Alomair. The eight-episode series is about a family facing the death of their patriarch, Hassan, just as his mysterious past begins to resurface days before the launch of a smart app owned by the family business. The fast-paced drama develops from different protagonists’ perspectives and features several unconventional women characters.
      Al Rawabi School for Girls

      A young adult drama that sheds light on the impact of bullying on young women, through the eyes of a group of Arab teens navigating friendships, morality and difficult life choices. The series, made by a majority female cast and crew, is a true example of a story made in the Arab world and loved globally.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More