A Head Case for Skulls

Make no bones about it; the skull trend is here to stay! Popularized by Alexander McQueen, the once gothic omens have been transformed into chic accessories and prints to give any outfit a chic and/or rock edge. At ARTE, Skulls have been embraced by several artisans creating fashion and jewellery to clothing and home decor.

Framed Flag Skulls by Gorgeoustuff

Polymer Clay and Sterling Silver Skull Cufflinks by Janys De

Skull Earrings by Lady Mauve

Skull Jewellery by Lady Mauve

Handmade Gifts for Men

We don’t know about you, but we find it notoriously hard to buy gifts for the special men in our lives. If there’s no one thing in particular that springs to mind, our fail-safe advice is usually a package of little treats, things to make him laugh, and useful objects. It’s a great solution and you can mix-and-match to fit the big guy’s personality.

What’s your guy’s personality? Dapper, foodie, adventurer, sporty, musical or geeky, ARTE has a little something for everyone…

Handmade Model Railways By Model Railways UAE

Handmade Mugs by Irene’s Pots

Scottish Tablet desert by Toffee Princess

Handcrafted Bottle Stoppers by Colin Roberts

All natural Shaving Soap Kit by PAN Soaps

Sterling silver Cuff Links and Tie Pin by Mr. Beaujangles

Elvis stencil art Cushion by Gorgeoustuff

Touching lives – the late Alvin Apolonio

The late Alvin demonstrating the basics of watercolours

The late Alvin demonstrating the basics of watercolours

At ARTE, artisans come together not only to sell their handcrafts to the public, but also to support each other in one’s journey. Jan D’Sa, artist-designer-sculptor-writer and owner of both Janys De and the Cultural Arts Travelogue, has such a story to share.

“I was a repressed creative for nearly 20 years, allowing my sketches and paintings to be viewed by my own two eyes and no one else’s. I also threw my performing artist and musician garb into the metaphorical dark alley and retreated into my shell. I became a very shy and reserved person.”  Those who know Jan since she joined ARTE in its early days may probably remember that shy girl.

Jan, instead, chose to showcase her creativity through secondary artforms, i.e. through writing, through salt dough mini-sculptures (below) and wire crochet jewelry making.

Painted Salt Dough sculptures by Jan D'saPainted Salt Dough sculptures by Jan D'saPainted Salt Dough sculptures by Jan D’sa, in 2006

Then one day in 2011, a Philipino artist by the name of Alvin Apolonio, showed up at ARTE with paintings that awoke a dormant artistic volcano within Jan. Like many repressed creatives, she was felt a lot of fear in painting again. “I decided to attend an art workshop that Alvin Apolonio held, in conjunction with Carrie Wareham, Black Sheep Art Studio (an ARTE member). It was just so that I could work past this block that I had.”

The late Alvin with one of this fabulous painting.

The late Alvin with one of his fabulous paintings.

“I will never forget what Alvin told me as I started to use the paintbrush after 2 decades and struggled to hold it with confidence.” Alvin said, “I look forward to seeing your art. You have it in you. Just a bit of practice.””

The late Alvin showing the students the basic watercolour washes

The late Alvin showing the students the basic watercolour washes

Eight months later, this April 2012, Jan finally showed her art to the public for the first time at ARTE. Sadly, Alvin was not around to see it. He had passed away in the Philippines after a brief illness early this year.

“I was devastated as were many other artisans who regarded Alvin not only as a versatile painter and artist, but a friend. I had also experienced another artisan pass away a day after Alvin passed away (she was a jewelry designer), so the devastation of 2 creatives passing away was quite a strong experience.”

Astral Eclipse by Jan D'Sa. Done with the non dominant hand and was a very spontaneous painting

Astral Eclipse by Jan D’Sa. Done with the non dominant hand and was a very spontaneous painting

Spontaneous painting done with the non dominant hand featuring Arabic letters. Jan D'sa.

Spontaneous painting done with the non dominant hand featuring Arabic letters. Jan D’sa.

latest photo at ARTE souk, showcasing Janys De wire crochet sculptures, pendants, with the paintings in the background.

Latest photo at ARTE souk, showcasing Janys De wire crochet sculptures, pendants, with the paintings in the background.

These days Jan has allowed her music and theatrical expression to show itself, though in small, monitored doses.  She has also mustered courage to step out and  give workshops in creative writing where the art of spontaneity and reconnection with one’s creative self are key.  She has dared to create mixed media work where she combines various art and handcraft techniques such as wire work, crochet, acrylics, decoupage and clay. “All because Alvin reminded me that the secret to living more is by creating more.” Whenever Jan gets stuck as a creative, she remembers Alvin’s words and pushes beyond borders into the realm that only other former repressed creatives know of.

A skull sculpture in the making - will be ready in time for July ARTE

A skull sculpture in the making – will be ready in time for July ARTE. Creatively tapping into her love for forensics, anatomy and dark humour.

Visit Janys De website (to be revamped soon), Janys De blog, and Janys De facebook page.

Has an artisan changed your life beyond what you expected? Let us know how and you could be featured.

Sizzle with Ra’Dazzle

Spirally wrapped wire encases this bead. Note the clean finish of Ra'Dazzles work

Spirally wrapped wire encases this bead. Note the clean finish of Ra’Dazzles work

Sometimes two heads are better than one. And that’s what happened in the case of the Ra’Dazzle gals, Rachna and Anjana. Their common interest in trying out jewelry making as a hobby led to them teaming up under the brand name Ra’Dazzle, jewelry created mainly from wire (by Rachna) and crochet (by Anjana).

The gals have been working together for six years now, but like many of the artisans, they have been separately involved in their own handcraft and artistic journey in the areas of crochet, knitting and card making.

Closeup of Rachna's wire work piece to show how neatly she has finished the wire wrapping piece.

Closeup of Rachna’s wire work piece to show how neatly she has finished the wire wrapping piece.

Neatly tucked wire edges are very important in ensuring the customer is not harmed or scratched when wearing the piece. Rachna's advice

Neatly tucked wire edges are very important in ensuring the customer is not harmed or scratched when wearing the piece. Rachna’s advice

Rachna says, “The process of creating something, from scratch, with your hands is pure joy. For me, crafting is similar to meditation – complete focus on the craft, while forgetting about everything that’s happening around (the good or the bad)!”

Rachna’s work involves a lot of wire wrapping work as be seen from the photos in this blog post. We asked her what are some of the pointers that she would like to share with us, considering that working with wire can be risky if the sharp ends are not neatly tucked away into the piece (among other risks).

Add some Ra'Dazzle Sparkle to your ears.

Add some Ra’Dazzle Sparkle to your ears.

Few pointers Rachna:

  • Practice wire work on copper or craft wire initially as they’re a lot cheaper compared to sterling silver and gold-filled wires. You won’t feel guilty of throwing away all those trial pieces.
  • Always file the ends of your wire work (after using a flush cutter) – you wouldn’t want the ends poking the customer wearing your jewellery.
Photo by Ra'Dazzle indicates lots of jump ring work, similar to chain maille.

Photo by Ra’Dazzle indicates lots of jump ring work, similar to chain maille.

Close up of the piece that involves using multiple jump rings. See pointers about using jump rings in your work.

Close up of the piece that involves using multiple jump rings. See pointers about using jump rings in your work.

  • Invest in a nylon jaw chain nose pliers – this will prevent marks on your wire work and it is also good to straighten wire.
  • Make sure you close your jump rings properly.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different wire gauges, shapes and hardness.
  • Lots of patience is required

Join Ra’Dazzle on facebook.

Wrist Candy

For an instant wardrobe update this spring/summer 2012, all you need is some stunning chunky wrist-candy.

At ARTE, they come ranging from the sparkly Swarovski cuffs to some of spring’s most attention-grabbing and colourful bracelet. Each piece is an original and eye catching piece handcrafted by locally based artisans.

Ghawaiesh by Mona El Sanhoury and Radwa Abo Alam

Swarovski beads bracelet – vendor unknown

Keen on Bags and Oil Cloth

I (Jan) never knew what an oil cloth was till Carinne Abou-Huguet, Owner of Keen Bags, explained to me.  The oil cloth is basically the plastic looking material that you see in most of the Keen bag products (note the shiny bits on the Keen bags in the photos below).

Photo by ARTE.

Photo by ARTE.

The Oil cloth actually keep the bags waterproof. Great idea if you are going to the beach or you live in a tropical climate (which thankfully the UAE is not, though a bit of rain doesn’t hurt in the winter months).

Match and Match a bit more! Love the little bag because you can slip your hand in and use it as a clutch!

Match and Match a bit more! Love the little bag because you can slip your hand in and use it as a clutch!

When asked why Keen Bags, Carinne mentioned that her mother used to call her Keen when she was a child. “And that’s how I decided to name my bags collection as KeenBags.”

Bags, wallets and pouches. Oilcloth, cotton, vinyl and velvet. Details for comfort and chic.

Love the unique patterned textiles that are used by Keen Bags

Love the unique patterned textiles that are used by Keen Bags

The little trinkets are made by Noor Absynthe, for a personalised touch.

The little trinkets are made by Noir Absinthe, for a personalised touch. Such a great way for artisans to pair up and help each other in personalising their work

Use a KeenBag to protect your IPad.

Use a KeenBag to protect your IPad.

Keen Bags have their own workshop in Dubai, where you can visit to have your own bags customised.

Visit the facebook page of Keen Bags

A trip down memory lane with Sue Tyson Designs

Sue Tyson is one of ARTE’s most loyal vendors. Part of the original core team formed more than 6 years ago, Sue was probably the first handcrafted jewelry designer maker on the scene. I (Jan) remember her from the days when ARTE had its first exhibitions at the Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza. Woah! It’s such a long time ago; however, sometimes a trip down memory lane is vital in helping handcrafters understand how their work has evolved in time, and also how they have, as human beings, evolved. No judgement, no criticism. Only a learning exercise.
Sue Tyson has remained true to her niche – which is using authentic Murano glass from Italy in her designs.  Her display is by far one that I enjoy stopping by every ARTE market without fail, because it depicts an artisan who has taken time not only to make beautiful jewelry, but also make the display appealing that you want to touch her jewelry and perhaps buy it!
Sue Tyson designs at one of the recent ARTE markets

Sue Tyson designs at one of the recent ARTE markets

Another of Sue Tyson Designs display at March 2012 (ARTE market). Love the cage!

Another of Sue Tyson Designs display at March 2012 (ARTE market). Love the cage!

Sue shares with us the first ARTE poster that was used at the Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza exhibitions. You can see a piece of her work on the bottom right corner of the poster.
Her first experience in displaying and setting up was at the Marina Market. “It was definitely a baptism of fire for me as the market was every Friday. It was always outdoors including during the summer months and exhaustingly hot. If there was a Shamaal or rain, that was even more fun. Backing onto the Marina, you always got wind in every direction!  You always had to drink at least 3 litres or more of liquid /water during the day. Even though I was used to Hong Kong heat & humidity, Dubai’s summer was quite a shock.”
Marina Market display all those many years ago - Sue's first exhibition in Dubai

Marina Market display all those many years ago - Sue's first exhibition in Dubai

Note the previous design of Sue Tyson's business cards. Sue now has a silver foil emblem on her business cards and gift bags.
ARTE markets then moved to Al Ghazal mall for a very short season. The dark corridors meant that most photographs taken were dull and uninspiring. Still I’m glad Sue did take some photos, as part of her design evolution kit.
At Al Ghazal Mall

At Al Ghazal Mall

Even in those days, Sue's table displays were very imaginatively put together. Note the sponges used as displays.
Early Studio Display by Sue Tyson Designs
Not only has Sue’s display changed over time; the branding of her jewelry line has also evolved. She shares with us a photo of her earliest packaging kit.
Sue Tyson Designs - packaging in the early days

Sue Tyson Designs - packaging in the early days

Sue says, “So much depends on appearance, especially in Dubai.  One’s first visual image/impression that seems to be the key to whether someone sells/buys or not.”
“My main focus, I think is always best quality that I can currently offer, affordability, durability, authenticity, honesty, and good customer service. So that covers packaging, gift bags, add-ons eg. silver polish cloths if they buy precious metal, tips on how to maintain pieces (So many ask if they can go swimming wearing Sue Tyson jewellery.  I would say that one wouldn’t go swimming in one’s  usual clothes/dress so why keep all your jewellery on?).
Early Expo days

Early Expo days

In keeping with the whole Sue Tyson Designs brand, Sue has started to incorporate the PERLAVITA! range of Italian Murano Glass beads in her existing Murano Glass designs. “These are made by Italian craftsmen following a long family led tradition since the 14th centure, I believe.  They compliment my existing Murano themed designs perfectly.”
Sue Tyson Designs as they are currently. Evolution at its best!

Sue Tyson Designs as they are currently. Evolution at its best!

So here’s a note to newbie vendors.  Be authentic. Create your brand from your heart. Start somewhere. And the path will open up, slowly but surely and beautifully.
Follow Sue Tyson Designs on facebook.

Birds of a Feather

Thanks to Hollywood hipsters, such as Jessica Biel and Steven Tyler, the feather hair extension trend – often seen as colourful feathers that clip into the hair – has really taken flight and is quickly spreading worldwide.

Closer to home, 16-year-old ARTE member, Hannah, is showing fashionistas how a strand of feathers into your mane may be just what you need to get yourself prepped for a truly bohemian summer.

Safe, Beautiful and Colourful

All natural real feather extensions are the simple way to give your hair colour and life; they will not damage your hair like adding dye or highlights.  They are the perfect way to change your hair with your mood or with the seasons because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to put in; your professional stylist can ensure they are put in properly so they last.  When done properly, feather hair extensions can last for up to six months.

How to Wear It

Hannah says: Feather extensions can work with any hair length. If you have short hair, you can wear your extensions two different ways: the length of the feathers can extend past the length of your hair for a dramatic look. You can also cut the feathers to match your length & blend them into your hairstyle.

Low Maintenance

Made from natural feathers, you can treat these extensions just like your own hair. They are water-friendly and you can straighten it, curl it or blow dry it. So style them any way you like!

Hannah is a regular at our monthly ARTE market in Times Square Centre. For more info about Hannah’s Hair Feathers, email her directly.

Add a Little Sparkle to Your Life

Meet Laila Lambert, who brought to life her passion for crystals in 2006 when she founded Sparklefairy – the UAE’s first New Age online boutique, all things fairy, angel, handmade & crystals.

Illustration of Sparklefairy made by the fabulous Pink Poodle

Her collection comprises of beautiful handmade angel & fairy jewellery for every occasion including angel callers, wish pendants, exclusive scared geometry jewellery as well as supplying a full range of crystals from giant geodes (up to 1 metre high) tumblestones, raw, clusters, wands, pendulums, very rare crystals, fossils MOLDAVITE & ORGONE. Angel/Oracle cards, unique natural incense (no synthetics) and so much more, she also does lovely ideas for wedding favours.

We especially love her Fertility Bracelet made from crystals have an innate energy to prepare the body for conception.

We asked: What crystals are in the Fertility Bracelet and why?

Laila said: I personally use Moonstone and Rose quartz. Many crystals can assist but from research these 2 crystals are most effective in my opinion. Moonstone is said to help aid in nurturing receptivity and balances emotions, moonstone also said to help welcome new life into the body. Moonstone is often called the Stone of the Goddess and symbolises acceptance and new beginnings. Moonstone may help with childbirth, conception and breast feeding. Rose quartz helps stabilize the energy inside the body. Provides one with love and self love. Rose quartz provides us with harmony and trust. The powerful combination of the rose quartz and moonstone is known to boost the woman’s fertility status. The energy from the Fertility bracelet works by balancing the energy in the body. It is calming, rids negative energy and reduces fears, also known to regulates menstrual cycle, improve blood circulation. As above.

We asked: How effective is it?

Laila said: We never say the fertility bracelet gets you pregnant, but it aids and working with energy is a lovely thing. Fertility Bracelets come from ancient traditions and still continue to be in use today, These days, a lot of women wear these types of bracelets for the very same reason that they were worn decades ago. Women will wear these gemstones because of tradition, out of belief or suggestion from family and friends, in order to improve their chances of getting pregnant.

For more info visit her facebook page or her website here: www.sparklefairy.com.