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The prestigious London Design Biennale has announced the Abu Dhabi pavilion as one of the three winners of the exhibition, a remarkable recognition amidst a group of over 40 international exhibitors who showcased design-led innovation under the theme “The Global Game: Remapping Collaborations.” This triumph was further enhanced as the Abu Dhabi pavilion was bestowed with the esteemed London Design Biennale Theme Medal for offering the most inspiring interpretation of this year’s theme. The awards were proudly accepted by Salama Al-Shamsi, director of cultural sites at Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, and House of Artisans curator Azza Al-Sharif. The presence of HE Sheikh Khalid Al Qasimi, Deputy Ambassador of the UAE in the UK, added to the celebratory ambiance.The captivating and immersive installation that secured these honors was presented by the House of Artisans and aptly named “Formation of Soof.” Going beyond surface aesthetics, the installation intricately intertwined Emirati crafts and architecture, emphasizing the significance of preserving traditional crafts for the prosperity of generations to come. The House of Artisans utilized the traditional Bedouin weaving technique, known as Sadu, to not only embody this year’s theme but also to spotlight the craft’s crucial role in cultural heritage preservation. Via social media, the art center underscored the importance of “highlighting this craft as a key part of creating awareness on its importance both as a craft but also on how to sustain and develop it for the future generations.”The immersive experience offered by “Formation of Soof” is best described as a captivating journey through the realm of soof, the Arabic term for wool, and the spinner or spindle, referred to as maghzal or ghazal in Arabic. The intricate display of raw wool artfully transformed into elaborate designs and distinctive patterns exemplifies how Sadu often serves as a reflection of social identity and the surrounding environment. The installation pays homage to the complexity and heritage of Al-Sadu, skillfully weaving stories through threads that connect tradition with contemporary expressions.A notable aspect of this achievement is the UNESCO recognition bestowed upon Sadu in 2011, where it was added to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. This acknowledgment attests to the profound significance of Sadu as an integral part of cultural heritage that requires dedicated efforts for its preservation and continued practice.The success of the “Formation of Soof” installation at the London Design Biennale not only elevates the profile of Emirati craftsmanship but also demonstrates the power of design in conveying cultural narratives. The immersive journey through the world of Sadu showcases how the past and present can harmoniously coexist, creating a platform for conversations that transcend time and borders. The recognition from the esteemed panel of judges and the awarding of the London Design Biennale Theme Medal underscore the enduring value of traditional crafts and their capacity to inspire global dialogues on collaboration and innovation.
