A new collaboration at The Galleria Al Maryah Island is set to promote cross cultural dialogue between France and the UAE.
Taking place from December 12 to 14, Flânerie Colbert Abu Dhabi is a joint project between Abu Dhabi and the Comite Colbert, an association of 84 French luxury houses and 16 cultural institutions founded in 1954.
As part of the programme, a series of events are taking place at locations across the UAE’s capital including The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi, House of Artisans and at Abu Dhabi Art 2019.
The events, from November 12, will explore 21st century French luxury and its cultural significance.
At The Galleria Al Maryah Island, 26 Colbert houses will create window displays, in-store scenographies and events at a selection of stores, including Louis Vuitton, Van Cleef Arpels, Celine and more. Everything will be inspired by the themes from the 10,000 Years of Luxury exhibition at Louvre Abu Dhabi.
The exhibition will feature 350 extraordinary objects from the fields of fashion, jewellery, art, furniture and design from throughout history, including designs from fashion houses Christian Dior, Chanel, Cartier and Herme and aims to show how different cultures have defined luxury and the impact of such excess on society.
Until November 28, Flanerie Colbert Abu Dhabi will calso have demonstrations, workshops and talks at Qasr Al Hosn’s House of Artisans.
The programme will include conversations on elements of Emirati heritage such as Al Sadu, Bisht, Calligraphy, Gahwa, Khoos, Talli or Khanjar-making and French crafts such as embroidery, silversmithing and leather goods.
Finally, at Abu Dhabi Art, talks on French luxury and contemporary art will take place by speakers from prestigious French luxury houses and cultural institutions on November 20 and 23.
“Flânerie Colbert Abu Dhabi represents the first time the combined French luxury brands have collaborated on such an endeavour, and as such this is a seminal moment for the emirate and for the region,” said HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi.
“The building of cultural bridges is a fundamental aspect of DCT Abu Dhabi’s mandate, as we reflect the openness of wider Emirati society, and its enthusiasm for embracing other cultures, and for sharing Emirati culture with the world.
“In this respect, Flânerie Colbert will bring together artisan skills, contemporary creation and the very best of both Emirati and French cultures.”
From November 12.Various locations inckuding The Galleria Al Maryah Island. For more information visit www.tcaabudhabi.com.
