Bottega Veneta x Nomad, Abu Dhabi
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Bottega Veneta today opens “Destinations”, an exhibition at NOMAD Abu Dhabi that explores the practice and symbolism of weaving. Marking the 50th anniversary of the house’s own iconic leather weave, Intrecciato, the exhibition brings together the work of eight creatives who respond to this signature house craft with their own materials, perspective, and heritage.
Curated by Rana Beiruti, the exhibition features the work of six artists and two creative studios from across the Middle East and North Africa: Abdalla Almulla, Amine Asselman, Esna Su, Nader Gammas, Shaha Raphael, and Zein Daouk, as well as the design studio Sayar & Garibeh and the architectural office bahraini — danish.
Each one-of-a-kind piece honours Bottega Veneta’s founding principles of craft and creativity. From ceramic sheets and volcanic stone to works inspired by Emirati Areesh and palm-frond braiding, the works dialogue with Intrecciato through different local materials, regional craft, and weaving traditions. Three pieces also include reserve leather from the Bottega Veneta atelier.
Together, the works illuminate Intrecciato as both a way of making and a philosophy of creating and being; an act of encounter and unity, an intertwining of different elements to create a stronger whole. Bottega Veneta holds this notion of encounter not only in its signature craft but also in its regional roots. With its integral connection to Venice – a city distinguished by cross-cultural encounter and exchange – the house is shaped by a spirit of discovery and dialogue. The exhibition title, “Destinations”, speaks to this spirit of discovery, as well as to the house’s central code of movement.
“The commissioned works reflect a wide variety of interpretations that honor the Intrecciato weave, while also carrying gestures from the designers’ own personal styles,” says Rana Beiruti. “Some of the works draw on regional heritage and weaving traditions, while others interpret weaving beyond its physical expression—representing the interlacing of ideas, narratives, and cultures. Together, “Destinations” exemplifies dedication to craft, respect for artisanal communities, and creativity born from tradition.”
Intrecciato, meaning “braided”, “interwoven”, or “intertwined” in Italian, was first introduced in 1975. It involves the hand weaving of slender leather strips called fettucce, arranged in precise proportions and a typically diagonal pattern. Over half a century, the signature craft has both endured and evolved, inspiring infinite new expressions in size, shape, texture, and attitude.
“Destinations” will be on display through 22 November.
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Float
Leather, steel, MDF, micro-cement
2025
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Amine Asselman 