Narges Noureddine’s linear composition brings a colorful touch.
Mohamed Yousif, Writer features
Ideal Standard, a leading provider of innovative bathroom solutions, hosted (August 23) the line of Emirati artist Narges Noureddine. In celebration of Emirati Women’s Day, the event was held at the Ideal Standard Dubai Design and Specification Center, located in the City Walk area of Dubai. The evening of artistic expression also included a live drawing session by artist Noureddine, in honor of the achievements of Emirati women. Emirati Women’s Day, celebrated annually on August 28, celebrates the achievements of women and pays homage to their contributions to the UAE.
Frederic Trzycinski, Vice President, Marketing and Innovation, Middle East and Africa, Ideal Standard Gulf B.S.C. . In addition to presenting some of her works, Noureddine’s live painting session took place at the Ideal Standard Dubai Design and Specifications Center, designed by the famous Italian designer Roberto Palomba of Palomba Serafini Associati. Similar to Noureddine’s incorporation of calligraphy into various art forms, the center strives to provide architects and designers with a platform to customize bathroom solutions, supported by an experienced team of professionals.
Noureddine puts her skill set, technique and record of words to show the integrity, harmony, origin of a respected art form and creative fire. “Nargis’s journey through intricate strokes of calligraphy matches Ideal Standard’s meticulous attention to detail in crafting bathroom solutions,” said Trzecinski. “This synergy of art and function reverberates throughout the event space, exemplifying Ideal Standard’s ongoing commitment to design excellence.” He added that Ideal Standard believes that the combination of design and performance is crucial to achieving true excellence. “Ideal Standard is known worldwide for its innovative approach to bathroom solutions, masterfully blending aesthetics with function. The company’s versatile product line is a testament to their commitment, showcasing a range of cutting-edge designs that redefine industry standards.
“This event witnesses a convergence of art and innovation, which underscores Ideal Standard’s commitment to the UAE community,” Trzycinski concluded. “Ideal Standard aims to continue its pursuit of design excellence and innovation, while remaining in touch with the culture and mores of the UAE society.” Noureddine graduated with honors from the College of Arts and Creative Industries at Zayed University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Interior Design. Since 2000, she has dedicated herself to Arabic calligraphy, earning international recognition for her skill.
Her artistic journey began at a young age when she was fascinated by the intricate woodwork made by her father. Inspired by a masterpiece of calligraphy brought home by her father’s calligrapher friend, she began studying calligraphy, spending hours perfecting her handwriting and mimicking charming lines. In 2004, she received her first international award from the Research Center for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA), Istanbul; It marked the beginning of its global recognition. She won another prize at the Algiers International Cultural Festival in Tlemcen in 2011.
She displays her artistry through various mediums, ranging from classic calligraphy paintings to modern paintings, murals, and sculptures. Her work has graced prestigious sites such as the Women’s Museum, where she executed the permanent calligraphy murals known as “Diwan Usha”. In addition, she has contributed facade artwork to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and has created several artworks and murals for projects including the Boulevard Plaza Towers by Emaar, Central Park Towers at Aradi in the Dubai International Financial Center and the Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority.
He has also ventured into the world of design and branding. She has showcased her talent and creativity through workshops for international brands such as Vacheron Constantin, Hermès, Chanel, Rolls-Royce, Gucci, and many more. She also collaborated with luxury brands to design perfume bottles, and incorporated the distinctive Arabic calligraphy style into her visual identity.
One of Noureddine’s most prominent achievements is presenting Sheikh Zayed’s poem, How Beautiful This World is, in an opera show, in cooperation with the Royal Opera House in London. Her calligraphy influenced stage design, costumes and choreography, creating a blend of visual and performing arts. Her work has been exhibited at prestigious venues such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the Riyadh National Museum in Saudi Arabia, and the Baghdad International Biennial for Arabic Calligraphy in Iraq.
She recalls that since the emergence of calligraphy in the early stages of her education, she “looked at the beauty of paintings and tried to imitate their essence in my art. I would scrutinize a well-written script for long periods of time, and then paint it in my mind.” Her father advised her to join the Sharjah Calligraphy Institute. “The institute was where I learned many things,” she says. “In sum, my artistic journey is driven by a deep appreciation for Arabic calligraphy, and I strive to inspire others through its timeless beauty. Fusing tradition and innovation, I aim to bring our cultural heritage to life and showcase the endless possibilities of this art form.
Ideal Standard International has been a leading provider of innovative bathroom solutions for over 100 years. It is a privately owned company headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, and operates in more than 60 countries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Ideal Standard MENA, part of Ideal Standard International, focuses on growth and growing business opportunities in the Middle East, Egypt and Africa, with main offices in Dubai.