Under the chairwomanship of Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Design Commission Abu Dhabi has launched the DCAD Pottery and Ceramics Residency in partnership with Ginori 1735.
Notably, the six-month programme reflects the commission’s strategy to advance design-led innovation, preserve cultural heritage, and support a future-ready creative economy.
At the same time, the residency strengthens international collaboration and applied learning within Abu Dhabi’s creative sector.
Running until 27 June 2026, the programme has welcomed ten UAE-resident participants selected for their creative potential and interest in ceramics as a contemporary cultural medium.
Meanwhile, the cohort represents a targeted investment in early and mid-career creative talent.
Consequently, the initiative supports workforce development across the design and craft industries.
Programme structure and industry partnerships
Hosted and co-delivered by MAKE, the Abu Dhabi community makerspace, the curriculum combines studio practice, sustainability, material research, and design theory.
In addition, the programme focuses on translating heritage-informed craft into contemporary product design.
Moreover, the residency places strong emphasis on hands-on making, material experimentation, and the development of technical skills.
The programme opened with a masterclass led by Ginori 1735 Collection Director Annalisa Tani and the brand’s in-house artist Giovanni Murtas.
As a result, participants gained direct insight into the company’s creative processes and artistic approach.
At the same time, the session introduced the legacy of the Italian brand’s porcelain craftsmanship and innovation.
Following completion of the residency, participants will present their capstone collections to media, patrons, collectors, and the wider creative community in September 2026.
Furthermore, the exhibition will take place at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation.
Subsequently, top-performing participants will receive a three-month internship at Ginori 1735’s headquarters in Italy in January 2027.
The residency is delivered in partnership with MAKE and creator management and licensing company Gushcloud International.
Additionally, Abu Dhabi Retail, the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Abu Dhabi University, Al Ain Educational, Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, Al Khaznah Leathers, Al Ghadeer Emirati Crafts, Inovartic Investment, Geek OUT UAE, and Reuter Ventures provide strategic and knowledge support.
Governance and creative-economy positioning
The commission’s board is led by Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan.
Meanwhile, the board includes Nadine Maalouf as Executive Vice Chairwoman, Rana Kuzayli El Khoury as Undersecretary, and advisory and board members Asma Al Fahim, Rym Al Falasy, Rima Al Mokarrab, Meera Al Suwaidi, and Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani.
Together, the leadership reflects a shared commitment to advancing design, driving innovation and supporting economic diversification.
Importantly, the DCAD Pottery and Ceramics Residency forms part of a wider strategy to position Abu Dhabi as a global producer and owner of internationally relevant art and design.
At the same time, the programme strengthens the local creative ecosystem through skills transfer and international exposure.
Moreover, access to global professional networks supports the long-term competitiveness of emerging designers.
As a result, the residency reinforces the commission’s role in building sustainable talent pipelines and enabling cultural and economic transformation.