Irthi explores strategies to help empower artisans

In a move that underscores the significance of traditional crafts in supporting and developing the creative economy, a panel discussion titled 'Traditional crafts: identity, economy, sustainability', held as part of the "Make it in the Emirates" Forum, brought together leading national institutions and centres dedicated to crafts, heritage and culture to unify visions on the future of traditional crafts as both an economic and cultural force.

- Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Organised by Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the discussion hosted Asma Al Hammadi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Creatives Development Sector at the Ministry of Culture; Reem Bin Karam, Director General of Irthi; Salama Al Shamsi, Director of Cultural Sites at the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi; Hind Al Mehairbi, Director of the Al Ghadeer Emirati Crafts Project; Eng. Ghalia Al Manai, Head of Strategic Affairs at the General Women’s Union, and Fayez Al Yamahi, Deputy Director General of Ghars Centre for Social Empowerment.

The panel discussion served as a platform to explore strategies for empowering artisans both socially and economically, while discussing the role of innovation in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the traditional crafts sector and strengthening its visibility in local and international markets.

A NATIONAL REGISTRY FOR CRAFTSPEOPLE: