Emirati Adornment: Tangible and Intangible book by Lest We Forget

The book and exhibition, Emirati Adornment: Tangible and Intangible, present a rich and fascinating exploration of Emirati identity, aesthetics and cultural history as conveyed through various modes of adornment. The exhibition broadly recognizes the compelling, dualistic nature of adornment, which can be either ‘tangible’ or ‘intangible,’ enduring or ephemeral. Both tangible and intangible forms of Emirati adornment hold valuable ‘intangible’ cultural heritage” the creative spirit, knowledge, skills and aesthetic sensibilities that are passed down from one generation to the next.

Lest We Forget is an innovative archival and research initiative that documents Emirati vernacular cultural memory and generates contemporary responses through the use of artistic language. Lest We Forget collaborates with individuals, families and communities to create artistic books, exhibitions, films, animations, product designs and even an opera.