ABOUT
DESIGNEAST is a platform established to advocate for artists and designers from the Global South. Launched in March 2023 in Dubai as part of the official art week with a textile art show (Un)common Threads, DESIGNEAST integrated work by emerging and mid career artists based on unique storytelling, authenticity and integrity. The second edition of (Un)common Threads took place as part of NOMAD, Capri, with the support of Gucci and Architectural Digest Italy and with the patronage of Abdelmonem Alserkal and Alserkal Initiatives.
Sustainability is at the heart of DESIGNEAST’s values and mission. As a platform we strive to give voice to often-overlooked artisans, craft clusters, indigenous makers and creatives who are native to, living in or working with the Global South. Our curation is based on the originality and quality of the work, the insights it gives to diverse cultures and traditions which is presented honestly, without a colonial cast. All our artists are emerging. They work in a natural sustainable way, with natural fibres and natural dyes and pull focus into process, detail and love of craft.