AL BARSHA, United Arab Emirates -- Like every new semester, Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC) is a hub of activity with an array of art and craft courses in progress. However, what's attracting the attention of art lovers is a new course 'Mulberry Art' by Timi Kim that is being offered for the first time at DIAC.
Timi, who is an acclaimed international artist with multiple talents aside from being a professional architect, said: “Han-Ji is a traditional Korean paper craft that has been used for centuries to make household items in Korea and I am truly proud to introduce it at DIAC. It is a great opportunity for people to learn this ancient craft in Dubai.”
Han-Ji literally means the paper of Korea that's handmade from fibrous skin of mulberry and is glued to objects made from cardboard - hence the name 'Mulberry Art'. Timi stressed, “Han-ji is known to be the most durable and versatile form of paper and is often used to dress up doors, windows and furniture in Korea giving a beautiful effect as well as superb ventilation and insulation”.
Shaikha Al Ghurair who is a regular member of DIAC was quick to join The Beginner's Professional Classes for Mulberry Art (a 5-week course) and seemed totally engrossed during the first session. To start with she is learning to make a box. So what made her join the course?
Shaikha said, "We saw some of Timi's work on display at DIAC some time back and were intrigued to see how it is done. The first thing you learn is how to make the structure for the box. I am really enjoying it but it needs a lot of patience. The finishing of the box can take a lot of time and it is up to you how you dress it up. It can be very simple or extremely intricate. You can also incorporate different material such as silk, other kinds of paper, etc."
Another keen student, Thangam Shivdas, looked equally excited about the workshop. She said, “It is really interesting and I am truly enjoying my work. The joy of making your own jewellery box is far more than what you can buy off the rack in the market. I just can't wait to finish my first box and start on other items”.
To register please call DIAC office on 04-3444 398or email at: artdubai@eim.ae
For more information about the centre Visit www.artdubai.com
Office timings: Saturday-Wednesday 9am-5pm
Thursday 9am-4pm; Friday closed
Gallery timings: Saturday-Wednesday 9am-8pm
Thursday 9am-4pm; Friday Closed
Location: The Dubai International Art Centre is located in Villa 27, Street 75B, off Jumeirah Road, behind Town Center.
About Dubai International Art Centre
Few centres are associated with art as the DIAC. The emphasis is on small-group teaching and the centre prides itself on its friendly atmosphere and excellence. Here art immerses the students in learning. From the very beginning the space has been open to all – artists, students and public. Learning is a very sociable affair at DIAC that people with a creative bent truly enjoy with a group of like-minded persons. Its studios are unlike any classroom where one can feedone’s artistic spirit while expressing one’s creativity.
