Celebrate the heritage of Emirati craft at House of Artisans in Abu Dhabi
If you would like to take a journey back in time to explore the rich culture and history of the UAE, Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi is a good place to start. This historical landmark is now home to a permanent exhibition called the House of Artisans. This newly launched exhibition honours traditional artisans in the UAE and here’s what you need to know about the House of Artisans in Abu Dhabi.
ABOUT THE HOUSE OF ARTISANS IN ABU DHABI
His Highness Sheikh Khalid Bin Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Office, launched the House of Artisans at Qasr Al Hosn. The permanent exhibition is a tribute and celebration of UAE artisans and their craft.
The House of Artisan at Qasr Al Hosn is an initiative of the Department of Culture and Tourism with a strategy to highlight the varied history and heritage of the UAE in inspiring ways. This exhibition focusses on the revival of and safeguarding centuries-old local crafts in the Emirati culture.
The main aim behind the establishment of this exhibit is to embrace, preserve and promote ancient arts and crafts. Visitors can learn about the age-old handicrafts and how they have played a role in trade and commerce in the olden days. History enthusiasts can also get an insight to the crafts and the materials, techniques and skills used to produce these masterpieces over the years.
The exhibition also has contemporary pieces by veteran and emerging Emirati artists and designers who seek inspiration from the ancient heritage. House of Artisans in Abu Dhabi will also feature workshops, courses and events that promote local crafts and raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding ancient artistic values.
ARTS AND CRAFTS AT HOUSE OF ARTISANS IN ABU DHABI
Now that we’ve shed light on what the House of Artisans is all about, here’s the different crafts that you can explore upon your visit.
AL SADU
One of the main Emirati crafts that you can explore at the House of Artisans in Qasr Al Hosn is the Al Sadu weaving method. Al Sadu was used by early Bedouin women to create intricate textile patterns with precise weaving technique and skill.
To bring these pieces to life, talented bedouin women use animal wool and different tools to create an article of glorious clothing in geometrical patterns. The artisans take pride in their work, which forms a major part of their identity. The Al Sadu cloth and patterns reflect the surroundings and culture of the ancient artisans.
Besides creating stunning outfits. Al Sadu technique is also used to weave bait al-sha’ar, tents. These tents help protect families from the sweltering heat from the scorching desert sun.
Moreover, the traditional weaving method is also used to create accessories for camels called ataad. Camels play a vital role, particularly in Bedouin culture. Visitors at the House of Artisans can see Al Sadu weaving method and see the various camel accessories, tents and outfits made through Al Sadu.
KHOOS
When visiting the House of Artisans, visitors can also learn about the traditional craft of Khoos. This technique requires branches and leaves of the date palm tree to weave different household items like baskets, floor mats, hand-held fans and lids.
Men and women work together to weave or braid date palm fronds to produce various articles. While the main technique remains the same, some artists use colours to showcase their creativity.
TALLI
Another traditional craft that visitors can witness is the specialised skill called Talli. It is a skill passed on from generations amongst UAE women.
Talli uses cotton to weave dresses and scarves for centuries. Women decorate the collars, sleeves and hems of their traditional dresses such as thawb and kandura with a mix of gold and silver thread.
The complex nature of designs makes Talli special. It is an intensive process where the artist can’t afford a single mistake.
SEACRAFT
Fishing and pearling have been the backbones of the UAE’s economy in the past. Early residents in Abu Dhabi before the oil boom relied on fishing and pearling. They took advantage of the coastline and helped promote trade and commerce in the region.
Visitors can see the boats and equipment used by locals for fishing and pearl diving. These boats have played a vital role in establishing trade routes across the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean. Even today, fishing remains an important activity in this city. As a tourist, you can fish in the seas of Abu Dhabi.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE HOUSE OF ARTISANS IN ABU DHABI LOCATION?
The House of Artisans in Abu Dhabi is located at Qasr al Hosn in proximity to the Mall World Trade Centre and Etisalat Headquarters on the intersection between Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Road and Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street.
HOW MUCH IS THE HOUSE OF ARTISAN TICKET?
The House of Artisan entry fee is the same as the Qasr Al Hosn entrance fee that’s AED 30 per adult and AED 15 per child. Please note you may have to pay additional charges in case of any special events happening at Qasr Al Hosn. Tickets are available on the official Qasr Al Hosn website.
WHAT ARE THE HOUSE OF ARTISAN TIMINGS?
The House of Artisan Abu Dhabi opening hours are Saturday to Thursday 10:00 am – 04:00 pm and 07:00 pm – 11:00 pm. The House of Artisan timings for Friday are 04:00 pm – 12:00 am.
ARE THERE ANY ART GALLERIES IN AL AIN?
Al Ain is home to Al Qattara Arts Centre that boasts an art gallery, an archaeological exhibit and a studio. Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage regulates the centre. It’s one of the top spots to see art pieces from local artists.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR ART CENTRES IN DUBAI?
Dubai has several attractions for art buffs, such as the Miraj Islamic Art Centre. This is where you can learn about Islamic art, its history and visit the stunning art gallery for Islamic artwork. But if your interests lean towards contemporary art, visit the Theatre of Digital Art in Dubai.
This concludes our guide to the House of Artisans at Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi. Besides visiting the exhibition, you can also be a part of online sessions that showcases these traditional arts.
With a little help from the online sessions, learn how to make bookmarks at House of Artisans soon. Moreover, the official House of Artisans website has a colouring book available for download. It also has a tempting recipe book that includes recipes for local Emirati food such as khanfaroosh, a saffron and cardamom dessert.
Qasr Al Hosn is also known for its various events year-round. One of the most popular festivals to watchout for is the 10 days long Qasr Al Hosn Festival. The capital city also hosts events and activities related to arts. Here’s a list of major art events in Abu Dhabi that you can be a part of.
Besides the Qasr Al Hosn, there are other heritage sites in Abu Dhabi worth exploring. For more arts and culture activities and exhibits, visit the Cultural Foundation Abu Dhabi.
