Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has launched the second edition of the Talent Atelier programme, in partnership with L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels. The initiative is designed to empower six UAE-based designers through academic learning, hands-on training, and immersive experiences in both Dubai and Paris.
Building Creative Capacity Through the Dubai Cultural Grant
Part of the Dubai Cultural Grant, Talent Atelier aligns with the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy, reinforcing the emirate’s commitment to cultivating its creative industries. The programme aims to position Dubai as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.
The 2025 cohort includes:
- Kamla Al Olama
- Sara Al Khayyal
- Noora Al Shamsi
- Hessa Al Abdulla
- Hind Janahi
- Andreea Andres
These participants will undergo training in art history, craftsmanship, and gemology, hosted at L’ÉCOLE’s campus in Dubai Design District (d3). The sessions are designed to elevate their technical and artistic skills while helping them translate creative concepts into tangible design sketches.
Paris Residency: Deepening Artistic Practice
In the second phase, running from 1 to 5 September 2025, participants will travel to Paris, attending L’ÉCOLE’s campus at the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau. There, they will engage in educational modules, hands-on workshops, and curated visits to partner museums, gaining international exposure to the jewelry arts in one of the world’s design capitals.
Final Showcase and Cultural Integration
The programme will conclude in Dubai, where participants will unveil their final designs—real-life jewelry pieces that showcase the growth and expertise achieved through the Talent Atelier journey. These works will demonstrate the programme’s role in merging artistic vision with technical excellence.
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design & Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, stated:
“Talent Atelier is a model educational platform that nurtures the creative and professional growth of UAE-based designers. We are investing in individual talent while feeding into a wider ecosystem that celebrates the art of jewelry-making and contributes to Dubai’s creative economy.”
Sophie Claudel, Director of L’ÉCOLE Middle East, added:
“We are proud to partner again with Dubai Culture on Talent Atelier. The programme creates opportunities for the next generation of designers while promoting cross-cultural dialogue and celebrating the UAE’s vibrant talent during this Year of Community.”
A Model for Cultural and Creative Exchange
The second edition of Talent Atelier reflects a growing collaboration between Dubai Culture and L’ÉCOLE Middle East, combining academic excellence, heritage craft, and regional storytelling. The initiative strengthens cultural ties and advances the UAE’s mission to foster a globally competitive creative economy.