Ascots & Chapels, a British business, has found a novel approach to help UAE-based artists. The ‘Artist of the Month’ CSR program, which was launched recently during Dubai’s ‘art month,’ aims to highlight the nation’s arts and cultural community’s legacy and diversity.
The brand will cooperate with local artists, designers, illustrators, and graphic designers as part of the campaign, commissioning them to create a bespoke piece of art that will cover the lining of a custom suit jacket. The firm gave special attention to promoting the UAE when choosing new artists for the campaign, and for its first collaboration, it chose modern Emirati artist Khalid Al Banna.
As an ode to his work in modern fine arts, Sharjah-based Al Banna’s invention is now part of a limited-edition jacket. The painting features etching, which is a characteristic of his work, as well as themes and collages that pay homage to Emirati culture.
Khalid al Banna an artist said; “It’s an honor to work on this project with Ascots & Chapels.” My vision becomes more accessible and mainstream by converting my print artworks to fabric, and it was wonderful to witness it come to life in a tactile and fluid manner. It also gives the suit a higher artistic value and puts it to life.”
The project brings two worlds together with the goal of introducing mixed media artists to a wider audience. The idea is to work with up-and-coming artists as well as renowned artists like Al Banna who may struggle to find the right platform to present their work to a wider audience. This year-long partnership will bring together a varied group of artists from various cultures, disciplines, and ways of life.
