A discussion with the makers of Dubai and the convergence and divergence in their journeys.

This open-discussion where design and making industry experts from different stages of their careers and backgrounds conversed openly to map out their journeys and better understand where they overlap and where they diverge.

Coming from diverse backgrounds; designers, academics, industrialists and independent makers answered coming questions and offered insights reflecting their respective experiences in the local market of Dubai.

Panelists:

  • Howlin Rooster, Independent Maker
  • Alya Aleghfeli, Local Maker
  • Dima Srouji, Visiting Assistant Professor, American University of Sharjah
  • Faissal El Malak, Designer
  • Moderated by Helen Voce, Head Mentor of the Tanween Programme, Tashkeel

About Helen Voce, Head Mentor of the Tanween Programme, Tashkeel
Helen Voce is an independent project manager, event and programme producer in the creative industries working locally, nationally, internationally and voluntarily. She designs, facilitates and produces opportunities, initiatives and spaces in which creative practitioners, microbusinesses, projects and organisations can realise their full creative potential. Working and studying in the creative industries since 1995, Helen’s professional specialism and personal interest is contemporary craft and design. Amongst other things, Helen is a mentor on the Crafts Council’s, Hothouse development programme for emerging makers and Creative Scotland / Glasgow Life Craft Makers Award, a Producer at Cove Park, Scotland’s international artists residency centre and a facilitator on the Small is Beautiful Tanween Design Programme at Tashkeel, Dubai. Helen has previously worked for Cultural Enterprise Office, the Victoria & Albert Museum and Dumfries & Galloway Council, which included delivery of Spring Fling, Scotland’s Premier Arts & Crafts Open Studios Event.