Tag: gifts

Stockings Full of Christmas Gift Ideas at ARTE

2 Comments

It’s that time of the year again… Think fluffy clouds, stunning sunsets and Christmas markets!

The lead up to Christmas at ARTE, the Makers Market sees the cogs churning and the workshops whirring as real-life elves dig deep into their Santa sacks of magic, creativity and skill for the best handmade products the UAE has to offer. Deep within the grottos of Dubai, you’ll find our busy makers cold-pressing nut butter, hot pressing fabric designs, fiddling with wires, beads and threads, merino wool and silk fibres, all to the sound of distant knitting needles clicking, paper mache sticking, gasps of awe and wows of wonder.

What better way to celebrate, than by gifting years of experience, craftsmanship and unique bespoke pieces to the people you love on your gift list?

ARTE’S STOCKING FILLER GIFT IDEAS

There’s a known saying that ‘good things come in small packages’ and our Artisans of the Emirates at ARTE have spent hours-upon-hours to prove that true. You can put them under your Christmas tree or slip them in a stocking; these unique handcrafted gifts are the perfect pieces for those who have everything and a must-have for everyone in between.

The Warm Up – Christmas Decorations

emirati christmas ornamentsJodie Art Framing – Tree Ornaments

Typical is an obsolete word at our markets, from art to ornament there’s a story of significance.

Our savvy Art and Framing Consultant, Jodie Cummins, has created these cute and crafty Emirati men and women tree ornaments, making your home the envy of the palaces.

If you’re lucky, you might just see her mastery in process at one of our upcoming Christmas markets.

 

christmas camelsDawn Southern – Christmas Camels

As old and gold as the nativity scene itself, camels have featured as the bearers of great gifts throughout our festive history. Just as legendary, Christmas camels have become a UAE tradition that’s been running with the same group of ladies for over 15 years.

These wooden camel templates form their own unique features – from the gorgeous camels’ lashes to their brightest coloured saddlebags… all by hand using acrylic paints. A great Christmas tree decoration that can be gifted, hung and even personalised.

luna mora - fun feltLuna Mora – Fun felt

Perhaps your tree needs a new fairy, or your fairy a new tree? Luna Mora’s designs are a true labour of love with some of these timeless pieces taking up to 25 hours to make.

Find your Christmas decoration that barely sees a box from her stall at ARTE.

Gifts for HER or HIM

personalised embroideryTread Threads – Keyrings/Bookmarks & Personalised Embroidery

Whilst Santa awaits his cookies and Rudolph his carrot, a Christmas dinner in Dubai might see tables laid with a roast, or a Christmas day brunch BBQ fired feast.

Here’s a stocking filler that can be rolled up and strategically given as a nudge to the man of the house, to do what he claims to do best, and get grilling for a Christmas day filling.

These aprons make the perfect personalised gift for him. Keep an eye out on the Tread Threads table for personalised bookmarks and other teacher’s gift ideas.

jewellery giftRaphaeilo Accessories – Jewellery

A go-to gift with a difference – jewellery! So (men), for once, don’t go trying to fix what isn’t broken and get her something sure to wow with a statement piece of jewellery from Raphaello Accessories.

Many of their items are handcrafted in lightweight silver and coated in gold leaf making them incredibly comfy to wear.

 

Gift Ideas for the Littlest Stockings

handmade knitted dollsMarjan and Bahar – Corals Handmade

The sister duo Marjan & Bahar have 16 years of knitting under their belts which have perfected their bestselling topsy-turvy dolls and unicorns.

Keep them in the stocking, safely tucked-in the night before Christmas to bring as many years of joy for your little one.

For The cherished Pet

Sassy Pepet accessoriestshop, Pet Accessories

Leaving no one out at ARTE, The Sassy Petshop’s wonderful array of pet paraphernalia may just be the perfect way to say thank you and include the most loved member of the family (we won’t tell the kids) into the festivities.

We love this Christmas themed dog collar but she also has some pretty cool personalised pet gifts too!

 

Housewarming Gift

housewarming giftSAANTÉ – AROMATHERAPY FOR YOUR BODY, MIND AND SOUL.

The holiday season equals celebrations, invitations, food and merriment. Turn up with your arms open and your bags full with a housewarming gift that will literally warm the house.

Saanté makes the most deliciously smelling natural Beeswax & Essential Oils candles, soaps, creams, lotions & potions and they even stock White Sage to burn for ridding the nasties so that there’s only room for nice on the list – although that one may send the wrong message as a housewarming gift.

hearti grubArti – Hearti Grub

Great to take as a thank you or as a stocking-sized alternative to the Christmas orange are any of Hearti Grub’s exclusive festive granola and nut butterfestive gift boxes.

Using premium quality organic and GMO-free nuts through a cold-pressed technique that retains the nutritional value of the nut oil puts all of her products appropriately on the nice list.

Gifts For One & All

pop-up cardsKelly – Abra Pop-up Cards

The fantastical genius Kelly at Abra Cards, hand makes her whole collection and they’re truly magical! She currently has some new ones that are the perfect tree accompaniments to your stocking fillers, for a Christmas in Dubai filled with family tradition.

Check them out at our next Makers Market – She’s doing special batch deals.

 

personalised santa sacksNicola – Framed with Love

An all-round creative by nature and a self-professed Christmas enthusiast can mean only one thing – oodles of festive treasures by Nicola of Framed with Love.

We’re loving the personalised Santa Sacks and have our eyes set upon her cushions and Dubai-alternative to the Christmas jumper – Christmas T-shirt designs.

Shireen – Rare Find

As somebody that only sells what she loves, knowing that love, in essence, is universal, Shireen of Rare Find spends hours of doodling, sketching, painting and perfecting until her designs are ready for purchase.

You may have admired her hamsa & burqa prints at ARTE before and can be yours or a special someone’s at any of ARTE’s forthcoming Christmas markets coming up.

 

Arte’s Christmas Markets For the Diary:

  1. D3 | Dubai Design District, 12th December – Between buildings 2 & 4, 11am to 7pm.
  2. TSC | Times Square Center, 13th December, 10am – 6 pm.
  3. QE2 | Queen Elisabeth , 14th December, 9am – 5pm – Mina Rashid Marina, Port Rashid.

Click here! To check out our Facebook page for more Christmas gift hints and ideas and our events calendar and workshops to come.

10 Reasons Handmade is Best.

3 Comments
ARTE, the Makers’ Market is a place for the wonderful creatives of the UAE to gather and sell their products. Over 13 years of hosting markets in five star shopping malls in Dubai and surrounding Emirates, we have come to realise that hand created is best and here is why.

#1.  Handmade is Thoughtful.

Each item is a creation of love and skill. The artisan uses all their abilities to create a beautiful item that celebrates their craftsmanship. They have imagined each piece, from beginning to end. The thoughtfulness extends to the buyer, who appreciates all the effort and skill.

#2. Handmade is High Quality.

Hand created products are made to the highest quality because the maker understand the value of each piece. Remember paying less means your getting less. Hand crafted work is built to last. It is not there until the next upgrade or until the guarantee runs out.

#3. Handmade is Green.

There is not large factory or industry behind hand made. Generally the products are produces and sold in one region or home town. Products pass through fewer hands than big companies, creating a smaller footprint. Who doesn’t value that today?

#4.Handmade is Sustainable.

Creators of handmade items care greatly about the quality of the materials they use. They spend time looking for recyclable packaging, Eco-friendly suppliers or local producers.  Where there is an over production of certain goods their is the likely hood of unethical sourcing. The better the materials, the better the end product.

#5. Handmade is Supportive.

When buying a hand crafted item you are supporting the local economy, the local community and a real person. Each sale makes a huge difference in their lives. You are supporting a child going to school or a meal for their table, not a huge corporate brand.

#6. Handmade can be Customised.

This is my favourite reason for buying hand-made. You can make it your own! Personalising your piece creates a feeling of pride that it is unique to you. Every artisan wants to see a happy customer. By helping create your very own bespoke item they attain this happiness.

#7. Handmade has a Story.

Hand crafted items are created under one roof, by one maker. By supporting the maker, you support their creativity and skill. You get to shake the hand of the creator of your beautiful piece. The Artisan has spent many nights learning a skill, perfecting a technique and pouring their passion into what they make. Your gift has a very special story of a lifetime woven into it.

#8. Handmade Keeps Traditional Skills and Crafts Alive.

Yes, you support learning, creating and history by allowing craftsmen to practice, showcase and carry on traditions. We are a society that values the art and creativity and by buying handmade you support the continuation of the arts for the next generation.

#9. Handmade is Unique.

Handmade is not mass produced. Each item is a unique display of craftsmanship. Each has their own character that is to be admired. When you buy handmade, you are buying a commitment of authenticity, a guarantee that no other piece will ever be the same.

#10. Handmade is Better for Your Conscience.

You are more aware of how your actions influence the bigger picture. Not supporting mass market products, unethical sourcing or low cost labour. You are supporting peoples livelihoods with a responsible decision to redistributing wealth.

But most of all Handmade is a community!

Join ours and discover the wonderful world of Handmade, you won’t regret it! The Artisans of the Emirates have stories to tell.
Up and Coming Events – click here
Follow us on Facebook
Follow us on Instagram
For any questions please email info@arte.ae
Booking forms available here
Become a Vendor here

Shilpa – Henna Musings and ARTE

Henna Musings, a thoughtful collection of gorgeous designs which represent the UAE and Dubai. When we think of henna, we think the beautiful, intricate patterns that are created on the hands and feet of woman. Yet, these images are fleeting. Not, Henna Musings designs, Shilpa has created everlasting henna creations on candles. These lovely candles make wonderful gifts and amazing decorations for any home.

It is however, with a heavy heart that we tell her story today… as always Dubai is a transient city and Shilpa will be heading on to new adventures. We wish Shilpa all the best and know that she will be deeply missed at our markets.

Shilpa will be at ARTE in Times Square Center this Friday, 9 March from 10am to 6pm. Please join us in saying farewell and don’t forget to stock up on her Henna Musing Candles.

Shilpa’s Journey with arte

When I moved to Dubai in 2012, I had no idea about the great handmade art markets that Dubai had to offer. I have always loved to try my hand at new things from painting to paper quilling to baking. One fine day, I decided to explore the art of henna candles. The art of henna painting on hands is something that everyone links to Dubai and I found the thought of henna candles fascinating because it took the art to the next level i.e. taking something that is so delicate and transforming it to a permanent art work. 

It started off as a casual thing and then I decided to exhibit at ARTE in September 2013. I was delighted to find a platform to take my hobby to a commercial level. Nervous yet excited…..my first market didn’t go as well as I expected though the appreciation I received felt great. But my lovely neighbor at the market, Diana, who used to sell camel milk soaps encouraged me to not give up. I am glad she did and I am super thankful to her….as after the first market, there was no looking back! Such is our ARTE community….everyone is always happy to help each other.

Over the past 4 and a half years that I have been with ARTE, I met some very lovely people….fellow vendors and some super happy customers who I proudly call friends now. I have some customers from my very first few markets who still come to buy the candles for gifts and then there are others, who’ve never bought candles but have always stopped and appreciated my art over and over again. It feels great to know that my candles have reached various parts of the world as Dubai souvenirs.

Thank you ARTE for this wonderful opportunity! Miriam & Stephen, you are doing a great job giving people a platform to explore their talents & take their art to the people!  

I will miss being part of this lovely community but I will always treasure these beautiful memories.

Best Wishes to all at ARTE,

Shilpa

Henna Musings

Shireen McGurn – Truly a Rare Find

1 Comment

The sign says: “No sales pitch, if you’re not crazy in love with it, please say no and walk away.’ and she means it. Shireen is hardworking, honest, straight to the point and very gifted. She is one of the quiet ones at ARTE but don’t let that fool you. She is super talented and highly supportive of hand created in the UAE and her fun loving attitude bubbles with energy.

We had a little chat with her and discover her passion for ART, why she loves ARTE, the Makers’ Market and why she creates.

Meet Shireen McGurn

Why do you love ARTE?
I can sell what I truly love making. It is the best platform for my creative ideas.

When did you discover your passion for your artisan’s work?
The minute I could doodle.

How did you get where you are now?
People asked to buy things that I made.

What or Who is your inspiration?
Inspiration is not a set thing. Everything, all around, people I meet, artists, children. Sources of inspiration are ever changing.

What is your favorite piece of work that you have created?
The Camel Dubai.

What is your trick to make the sale?
No tricks. I’m honest and open with customers. I’ve even told customers to return products if they change their mind. These are my creations, why would I want someone to keep something I’ve put my heart into, that they don’t really want it.

What is your best seller, what are you known for in the artisans’ community?
People know me for my artwork and signs. The artworks are unique Dubai pieces. The signs are fun and make people laugh and that’s why most people stop to look.

What does your artisan’s work really mean to you? Is it business, pleasure, passion?
It’s my business but it comes from passion and a need to create.

I always say: “I’m one big creative mess.”

What are you working on at the moment? Do you have any new projects coming up?
I’m working on new artworks to go with my Camel Dubai.

Who or what at ARTE do you like or admire?
I love true handmade products. ARTE is the one market that believes in true artisans. All the vendors with their original ideas inspire me. I love seeing their ideas come to life.

Do you use any unusual, or special materials in your product?
Not really, I make things from materials I have around me, I always have.

Which part of your work do you enjoy the most, the design part, the finding of materials, the combining of colours, the marketing, the packaging, the selling?
I love the undistracted moments of being creative. Getting engrossed in a project, painting, working on a piece of jewellery. I also enjoy meeting people at ARTE, seeing reactions and hearing people’s stories. Where else would you come across such a wide cross-section of people?

Shireen is truly a rare find and you should pop into the ARTE market and discover her amazing talent and friendly personality. Her signs will make you giggle, her work will take your breath away and you will be better for meeting this talented creative.

Meet Shireen at the ARTE Market:

Dubai British School on 13th December 2017
Mercato Mall on Friday 15th December 2017
Times Square Center on Friday 22nd December 2017

Find her on Social Media:

Facebook – @RareFinddxb
Instagram – @Rarefind99

ARTE, the Makers’ Market is the UAE’s largest, hand created market which also includes an exclusive vintage section. Make sure you follow our events page HERE for all our next markets.

The Best Gifts for Mother’s Day

2 Comments

Spoil Mom this Mother’s Day with a unique, handmade gift.

Mother’s Day is that special time that we can show our Moms how much we love and appreciate them. ARTE has chosen the best hand made, one-of-a-kind gifts that your Mom is going to love and you will definitely be voted as the Child of the Year.

The Holistic shop

The Holistic Shop creates crystal healing art and these rose quarts hearts and planters is specially made to show your unconditional love for Mom.

Agate handmade Jewelries

Gorgeous handmade fashion jewellery and accessories made with a variety of products including, gemstones ,beads ,brass and copper.

Desert Patch

Mom loves when you put effort into the gifts that you give. Join Desert Patch and create your own unique decoupage hearts that Mom will treasure forever.

pictoresca design

Lina Saurez will create your custom pillow filled with special memories of you and Mom.

Deseneros

Make sure your Mom rocks her jewels with a signature piece from Deseneros!

H makes bags

Handmade bags made by Heather, using a combination of new, vintage and recycled fabrics.
Grab one of the  Burqa sisters and spoil Mom.

Ups designs by Upasana kapoor

Her handmade abstract journals ,feather bookmarks and cute jute or brocade bag will definitely make your Mom smile.

Jewellery by Leah

Pure silver personalised jewellery from bracelets and necklace pendants. Children’s hand prints, footprints and drawings can be incorporated on to the jewellery to make gifts and keepsakes perfect for Mother’s Day.

Handy-Craftz & Artz

A beautiful union of candles and the traditional art of henna.These elegant candles are hand-painted with natural henna paste and will look lovely in any home.

Audrey’s Cat

Vintage Moms will be delighted with any of Lynda Kirby’s vintage collection items. Jewellery, clothing or even a stylish hat that she can wear to the Horse races later this month, will make her day.

Inkycamel

Each picture is handmade to order and with a pattern of Arabic letters and numbers. Spell out your Love for Mom.

Handlettered by lama

Fantastic cups that lets Mom know how special she is to you.

Arlene’s Dreamcatchers

Make sure Mom gets a good nights rest with one of these lovely hand created dream catchers. Make sure you chat the Arlene to get a customized item that will be as unique as your Mom.

Blooming Basket

Real preserved flowers from Blooming Basket has under gone a preservation process which allows the flower freshness and suppleness to be kept for a long time without losing its beauty. A flower that lasts.

If you have forgotten about the most important woman in your life, make sure to join us at the ARTE Market , Friday 17th March at Mercato Mall and Friday, 24th March at Times Square Center to find your perfect Mother’s Day gift.

We would like to wish all our special ARTE Moms a very Happy Mother’s Day. We appreciate your hard work and dedication.

Don’t miss the next ARTE, The Makers Market!
Like our Facebook page www.facebook.com/arte
Follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/arteuae
Check out our next market www.facebook.com/arte/events

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