Fatima Alqassimi

Jewellery & Metal (MA)

“Euphoric Blossoms” is a vibrant and joyful piece that cel- ebrates the life and abundance brought by the rain. This artwork retains the original red wax, symbolizing the exu- berance and vitality of the desert in bloom. The red color signifies the joy and renewal that rain brings to the arid landscape, where plants spring to life on the rain-soaked sand. The piece is adorned with an array of copper shades, including gold, yellow, and red, representing the diverse and rich textures of the desert after a rainstorm. The top of the piece features intricate growths that speak of abundance and new beginnings, capturing the essence of the desert’s transformation. All textures were crafted on wax before undergoing the electroforming process, ensuring that each detail is preserved in the final piece.

“Raindrop Serenade” is a smaller bowl that captures the gentle dance of light rain on the sand. This piece embodies the calm and serene moments of rain in the desert, with its softer textures and delicate stone imprints. The design reflects the lighter rain that caresses the sand, creating a tranquil and harmonious pattern. The dark blue patina of the bowl represents the night sky during a rainstorm, with subtle gray tones to evoke the mysterious and serene atmosphere of rainy nights. Each texture on this bowl was meticulously hand-carved from wax before being cast in bronze, highlighting the craftsman- ship involved in its creation. Raindrop

“Whispers of the Wadi” is the centerpiece of this collection, a large, hand-made bronze bowl that evokes the powerful im- agery of heavy rain on the sand. The intricate textures on this piece mimic the water valleys, known as “wadi,” formed by torrential rains. In my homeland, the formation of a wadi is a time of great excitement and celebration. The design includes delicate miniature shapes inspired by the shadows of camel caravans, or “Qafila,” moving across the desert. These tiny sil- houettes are a tribute to the historical journeys undertaken through the sands. Additionally, the bowl features textures of rocks carried down from the mountains by the heavy rains. The interior patina of the bowl is a rich, brown, leathery finish, reminiscent of the protective leather used on camels and horses during their winter travels through the desert.

Echoes of the Desert In bronze vessels, the desert speaks, Of rains past and sands that shift. Each tiny form, a flower's embrace, A testament to time's gentle drift.

About

Born and raised in the vibrant city of Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, I, Fatima AlQassimi, have always harbored a deep love for art. From my early years, sketching and painting came naturally to me. As I grew, my fascination with gemstones blossomed, leading me to embark on my jewelry journey in 2004.

After graduating from a jewelry management course in Dubai, I began freelancing as a designer. My journey since has been nothing short of extraordinary. In 2010, I began managing a jewelry workshop, garnering prestigious awards like “Jewelry Designer of the Year” from Le Official. My notable works include designing for Bravo TV’s Shahs of Sunset reality show , creating a piece auctioned by UNICEF, and being featured in Vogue Italia, Vogue Arabia, Elle Arabia, Ahlan, and The National.

In 2020, I took a sabbatical during the pandemic and immersed myself in the rich heritage of Florence, learning more about jewelry-making. This journey led me to choose to peruse my jewellery education and earn a degree in Jewelry and Metal from the RCA, London. My time at RCA revolutionized my craft, shifting my focus from traditional fine jewelry to creating objects and homeware from bronze and silver, often inspired by themes like the healing properties of sand.

Each of my pieces is an ode to meticulous craftsmanship, from the initial wax model to the final cast and textured product. My work is imbued with love and positive energy, a testament to my belief that the maker’s spirit is transferred to the piece and its new owner.

I find inspiration in every corner of life and am passionate about discovering and mastering both new and old techniques. My creations tell stories and convey sentimental messages, making each piece unique and filled with emotion.

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