Liwan Design Studios and Labs hosts open day

Liwan Design Studios and Labs offers an opportunity for the public to explore its creative community, engage in hands-on workshops, and discover cutting-edge design projects developed by Qatar-based artists and innovators during its first Open Day tomorrow (October25) from 4 to 5pm.On view during the event is a special exhibition titled, ‘Convergence' by The Project in collaboration with mhefhef, showcasing original pieces from their fashion brand.Visitors will also have the chance to hear from active residencies such as the Liwan Craft Residency: Future Traditions and the New Authentic, which explores reimagined craft practices inspired by the concept of the oasis. In addition, designers from the Ideas FROMM Industry Residency, developed in partnership with FROMM, will present their work-in-progress, offering insight into their immersive design experiences.The Open Day will also spotlight Liwan’s recent international residency with Campus MaNa in France, where four Liwan members spent the summer collaborating with local craftspeople and exploring cross-cultural creative exchanges.In a press statement, Liwan directoro Aisha Bint Nasser al-Sowaidi said: "Liwan’s Open Days continue to reflect our mission to foster an inclusive creative community that bridges design, craft, and innovation. We are proud to provide a platform for designers and makers to share their work, exchange ideas, and inspire one another. This Open Day will also showcase some of the exciting work from the residencies that we have been organising locally and internationally.”Throughout the evening, Liwan’s studios will be open for visitors to meet residents and discover a variety of creative practices, from graphic design at (in)finite Thought Studio to weaving and textile work led by Heenat Salma.The following interactive workshops will be available for visitors enrich their experience: a ceramic painting workshop led by Ewa Merchel; a Hamsa painting session with Soraya Sus; a Japanese bookbinding and ink-making workshop with Mangroves Studio; a kids’ accessories workshop led by Ekhlas Elhassane; and walk-in sessions by Norman Dipo on kinetic sand art and Paribesh Sitoula on scenography and photography techniques.Open Days at Liwan are designed to bring together designers, artisans, and members of the public in a space that celebrates multidisciplinary creativity and collaboration. This edition will feature an exciting lineup of exhibitions, live demonstrations, and interactive sessions that highlight the innovative spirit thriving within Qatar’s design scene.