An investigative collaboration looks into the process of renewing a dormant craft by inviting visitors [...]

29 October | 9am - 6pm
Between buildings 9 & 10, Dubai Design District (d3)

Pavilion Title: Unearthing, Kingdom of Bahrain

Amongst a rich and varied history, Bahrain has deep-rooted connection to the production of Pottery stemming from the earlier periods, unveiling itself to Bahrain through archaeological excavations throughout the island. The prime sea-trade location of the island promoted hybrid clay production, enhancing the craftsmen skills. Though clay has given way to more durable materials of the industrial age, the Bahrain Pavilion propose the material itself must undergo a transformation in its accessibility.

An investigative collaboration between designers Maitham Al-Mubarak and Othman Khunji, and the team at Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities, the process of renewing this dormant craft is presented as the generating of a customisation process and interactive exhibition. Audiences are invited to partake in the renewal of the use of clay by manipulating basic and necessary shapes put forward by the experts at Delmon Factory whose craftsmen still produce by hand, to produce exciting new meaning for pre-defined forms.

Curators & Designers:

The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities promotes all plans and programs related to culture, arts, and heritage in the Kingdom of Bahrain, with a vision to update and develop the cultural infrastructure, and activate the role of culture in social and economic development.

Othman Khunjiis a Bahraini interdisciplinary designer who graduated from VCU with an MFA degree in Design Studies. His work ranges between the fields of interactive installation/product, fashion and interior design.

Maitham AlMubarak is a Bahraini architect graduate from Savannah College of Art and Design in the USA. He currently works at Studio Anne Holtrop and has completed three courses under the Crown Prince’s Training Programs for the Youth, which include a communication, leadership, and management & business skills course.

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About Abwab
Abwab is a series of six pavilions built to celebrate and showcase the work of the most exciting designers, studios and curators from six different countries in the MENASA region. Abwab, meaning ‘doors’ in Arabic, acts as a direct portal to the region’s local design talent. A curator from each participating country leads the designers to generate never-before-seen design content under one unifying theme, this year's being The Human Senses.