Exhibitions, Design, Fine Crafts

Double J Collective, the first gallery dedicated to Fine Crafts and Concept Design in Dubai, opened in November in the Dubai Design District, building 7, with the mission of supporting European, Mediterranean and local artists, designers and artisans, who distinguish themselves by their talent and uniqueness. Maria Pratas, Marita Setas Ferro, Vanessa Barragão, José Ramos, Vânia Gonçalves, Albino Miranda, Miguel Soeiro, Paulo Antunes Studio, Evofabrics, Gir Gir, and Porventura are some of the Portuguese designers and brands represented in this new space that aims to push thelimits of creativity.

Double j Collective is a project by Jorge Cerveira Pinto and Jonathan Silva, art enthusiasts, who believe “in the power of art to transform lives and enrich society”. Their goal is to provide lovers of Fine Crafts and Concept Design with authentic and unique pieces.

Among the multiple works on display are works by Portuguese textile creators such as the vegetable fiber sculptures by Maria Pratas; the crochet “Soft Sculptures” by Marita Setas Ferro (founder of the Marita Moreno brand); and the organic structures made from recycled wool from textile waste by Vanessa Barragão.

Among the Portuguese artists are also the ceramicists José Ramos, with handcrafted stoneware ceramic pieces; and Vânia Gonçalves, with a ceramic sculpture that is a metaphor for human connections; as well as the designers Albino Miranda, with the “Flex” chair in fiberglass that can be customized with different finishing, color and fabric options; Miguel Soeiro, with his traditional wicker weaving; Paulo Antunes Studio, with an exclusive furniture collection; Evofabrics (Damaceno & Antunes) with unique decorative fabrics and wallpapers. The Gir Gir collective presents the “Honey Collection” of decorative and sustainable objects created with leftover marble; and Porventura exhibits unique furniture pieces that combine craftsmanship with the unusual to “capture the contemporary essence of the home”.