CRAFTSMANSHIP IS WHAT SKILLED ARTISTS AND BUILDERS DEMONSTRATE WHEN THEY CREATE SOMETHING
The skill of creativity is an imperative part of this collection’s curation.
Artistry transcends through continents, cultures and time. It is something powerful that has always been present in the world, and continues to innovate. This metamorphosis is echoed in this curation, where we begin with photographs through a non-colonial lens in the 50’s, through to hand sewn panels inspired by the traditional Emirati technique, known as Talli, glamorous and opulent fabrics from de Gournay, to modern day conceptual artists such as El Anatsui and Maggie Otieno.
Although these heritages exist from different time periods and locations, they are all an ode to craftsmanship and aptitude of tactile materials. The unparalleled view of capturing moments in time that are authentic and local are at the forefront of these works.
This curation allows you to explore heritage, appreciate materials that are anthropological and share depth, while all being bound by excellence in their craft.

Maggie Otieno
Custodians of Silent Tales (2), 2021
Mild Steel with Railway Sleepers
177.8 x 27.9 x 15.2cm

El Anatsui
DNA, 2021
Assorted Tropical Wood
239 x 152 cm
– Courtesy of Efie Gallery

J. K. Bruce-Vanderpuije
Elder Dempster Agency Line, 1960
Fine Art Archival Paper
50 x 67.1cm

J. K. Bruce-Vanderpuije
Jamestown Harbour Regatta, 1950s
Fine Art Archival Paper
30 x 39.3cm

J. K. Bruce-Vanderpuije
Telephone Lady, 1950s
Fine Art Archival Paper
30 x 38.7cm

J. K. Bruce-Vanderpuije
Mobile Service Station, 1950s
Fine Art Archival Paper
35 x 30.3cm

de Gournay
Custom Etienne on cotton velvet
Bespoke for The Cullinan

de Gournay
Deco Dawn for The Bar
On deep rich gold gilded paper

de Gournay
Deco Fish on Velvet

de Gournay
Custom Design on Pearl wool sateen