Van Cleef & Arpels Celebrates Emerging Talent with 2024 Middle East Emergent Designer Prize
In a remarkable celebration of creativity and cultural heritage, Van Cleef & Arpels, in partnership with Tashkeel, has announced Hajer Al Tenaiji as the winner of the 2024 Middle East Emergent Designer Prize. This milestone marks the 10th edition of the prestigious award, which seeks to foster and promote emerging design talent across the Gulf region, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait.
The award encourages designers to submit innovative proposals for functional products that resonate with a specific theme. This year's theme, "Inspiring Winds," draws inspiration from the diverse cultural interpretations of wind in desert landscapes, where local languages articulate its many forms—from gentle breezes to powerful storms. This theme reflects a journey of growth and renewal, capturing the essence of the region’s rich cultural narratives.
The Middle East Emergent Designer Prize has become a beacon for nurturing local talent, providing designers with the opportunity to realize their creative visions. Each year, a jury composed of esteemed design experts evaluates submissions, and this year’s panel included notable figures such as Abdalla AlMulla, Aline Asmar d’Amman, Rana Beiruti, Shaikha Al-Sulaiti, and Talib Choudhry. Their collective expertise underscores the significance of this initiative in cultivating a vibrant design community.
Karam Hoar, Marketing & Communications Manager of Tashkeel, expressed admiration for the high caliber of submissions this year. He noted that the jury was particularly impressed by Al Tenaiji’s design, which harmoniously blends regional traditions with elements inspired by nature.
The Winning Design: "Dhow Kite"
Hajer Al Tenaiji’s winning design, “Dhow Kite,” elegantly intertwines the cultural significance of the traditional dhow—a sailing vessel integral to the UAE’s maritime history—with the theme of wind. The design serves not only as an homage to the past but also as a symbol of hope and potential. Al Tenaiji, who established her design studio in Abu Dhabi in 2018, draws inspiration from the visual and cultural narratives of her homeland, showcasing a commitment to craftsmanship and the use of natural materials.
Alessandro Maffi, SVP of Middle East and India at Van Cleef & Arpels, highlighted the importance of this initiative in recognizing and supporting the creative vision of regional designers. He praised the exceptional skill and creativity displayed by all participants, emphasizing the enriching dialogue fostered by this award.
In light of the exceptionally strong submissions, the jury also recognized Lamies Yayha and Khaled Al Kathir as runners-up. Yayha’s “Breezeborn Console” reflects the serene beauty of wind-sculpted landscapes, crafted from reclaimed wood to embody harmony with nature. Al Kathir’s “No Beginning” Chandelier captures the transformative power of wind through its organic form, made from recycled materials that echo the surrounding environment.
The Van Cleef & Arpels Middle East Emergent Designer Prize not only enhances the design landscape of the region but also fosters a broader dialogue on innovation and craftsmanship. Tashkeel, established in 2008, plays a pivotal role in nurturing contemporary art and design practices, providing a platform for creative exploration and community engagement.
As this initiative continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the dedication of Van Cleef & Arpels and Tashkeel in empowering the next generation of designers, ensuring that the rich cultural tapestry of the Middle East remains vibrant and inspiring for years to come.
