Barāqi

The eyewear design was created during the early days of my artist residency at Athena House of Art, where I sought to transform a functional object into a vessel of visual and material memory. I wrapped the entire frame in golden cord, creating a luminous surface that evokes craftsmanship and ornamentation. I then attached small ceramic burqas reflecting the form of the traditional Emirati burqa—that I had prepared in advance, allowing them to become sculptural elements that interact with the structure of the frame.

I chose shades of red and orange for the ceramic pieces, as their warmth and radiance reflect the colors and atmosphere of Venice. The hues recall the city’s shimmering reflections on the water and the warmth of its historic architecture, creating a visual dialogue between color, place, and memory.

Karima Al-Shomely is an artist and educator from Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. She holds a B.A. in Economics and Accounting from the United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain, a B.F.A. from the University of Sharjah, and an M.F.A. from Chelsea College of Arts, University of the Arts London. She recently completed a PhD in Fine Arts at Kingston University, London. Al-Shomely is also an assistant professor at the College of Fine Arts and Design, University of Sharjah.

Working across mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, and installation, Al-Shomely explores complex social, political, and philosophical themes. Her practice engages deeply with the human condition and questions of identity, often grounded in a strong sense of social justice. From solo projects to group exhibitions, her work resonates with diverse audiences both in the UAE and internationally. Through thoughtful visual narratives, she invites reflection on the tensions and challenges shaping contemporary life.

In her artwork, Karima Al-Shomely draws inspiration from Talli, a traditional Emirati craft characterized by intricately embroidered bands made by twisting and braiding various threads into long, narrow decorative strips. These bands are traditionally used to adorn women's clothing.
For this piece, she incorporates the Talli technique to reflect her rich cultural heritage and to create a unique aesthetic that highlights the beauty of Emirati women's attire embellished with Talli bands. Her design features an interwoven, repetitive pattern of Talli bands, evoking the elegance of a gilded crown, reminiscent of the crowns worn by queens and princesses.