Dubai Design & Fashion Council – Design Days Dubai 2016: Flux Installation

During my tenure with the Dubai Design and Fashion Council (DDFC), I commissioned and managed the development of an innovative installation titled Flux for Design Days Dubai 2016. This project was a collaboration with Dubai-based design studio D04 Studio and featured artisanal furniture from NM Collection by Abu Dhabi-based designers Fouad Mirza and Ritchie Nolasco.

Flux was inspired by the ever-changing surfaces of desert dunes, capturing the fluidity of their forms as they freeze in time. This installation blurred the boundaries between furniture and architecture, using both horizontal and vertical surfaces to create a hybrid typology that functioned as a wall, floor, and majlis seating. The work celebrated regional culture and craftsmanship, showcasing the UAE’s design potential on an international platform.

My role encompassed curatorial strategy, stakeholder engagement, and overseeing the creative direction. I facilitated collaboration between designers and artisans, ensuring that the project highlighted the fusion of traditional techniques with contemporary design. An artisanal craftsman was also featured on-site, demonstrating the intricate art of mother-of-pearl, bone, and ebony inlay, emphasizing the UAE's rich heritage in craftsmanship.

The installation’s success extended beyond the event, as Flux remains a permanent fixture in Dubai Design District (D3), symbolizing the enduring impact of innovative design rooted in cultural identity. This project reflects my commitment to nurturing creative talent, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration, and elevating the UAE’s position in the global design landscape.