About this Edition of Museum of the Future's Ramadan Majlis:

The Museum of the Future’s Ramadan Majlis returns this year with two exclusive sessions dedicated to Islamic Jewellery and art. The sessions trace the origins of Islamic Jewellery and its evolution into contemporary forms. They examine Jewellery as a medium carrying spiritual symbolism, preserving cultural memory, and shaping familial identity, particularly during sacred occasions such as Ramadan and Eid. By exploring foundational materials, gemstones, and craftsmanship techniques alongside modern developments, the program presents Islamic Jewellery as a bridge connecting heritage with future-facing creativity.

Session 1 | An Exclusive Ramadan Majlis discussion in collaboration with -- L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts --

How does jewelry express both art and tradition in the Islamic world?

This talk explores the evolution of major Islamic art motifs across regions, while examining the social, cultural, and religious roles of Jewellery — from family life to moments of communal significance like Ramadan and Eid. It also highlights how materials, techniques, and savoir-faire are transmitted and reinterpreted across generations.

Join our speakers as they trace the heritage, meanings and lasting influence of Islamic Arts in Jewellery.

This panel discussion at the Museum of the Future offers a deep dive into the evolution of Islamic jewelry, moving from its historical roots to its place in contemporary design. Featuring experts Noura Al Serkal, May El Hage, and Fatma Al Mahmoud, the session will explore how iconic motifs like arabesque and geometric patterns transcend mere decoration to become symbols of cultural identity and familial legacy, particularly during sacred times like Ramadan and Eid. By examining the transition from ancient craftsmanship—such as traditional filigree and material mastery—to modern-day innovation, the talk aims to illustrate how today’s designers preserve the soul of Islamic heritage while pushing the boundaries of global jewelry art.

Panelists

Noura Al Serkal - An interdisciplinary artist, jeweler, and founder of TURABI and Noura Alserkal Design Studio. A graduate of the Royal College of Art, her work explores cultural identity and scent, earning her accolades such as the ADMAF Design Fund and RCA Swarovski Design Award. She currently serves as a Savoir-Faire Expert at L'ÉCOLE Middle East, sharing her expertise in regional jewelry heritage.

May El Hage - An art historian, licensed architect, and researcher with 15 years of academic experience. Specializing in the history of art and architecture, she has taught at the American University of Beirut and the Lebanese American University. Currently a Lecturer at L’ÉCOLE Middle East, she leads art history courses and talks, bridging the gap between historical research and the jewelry industry.

Fatma Al Mahmoud - Programs Senior Manager at the Museum of the Future, where she develops initiatives at the intersection of technology and culture. A seasoned curator and former Head of 1971 – Design Space, she is also the Managing Partner at Hamzat Wasl Studio. Her practice focuses on storytelling and community-driven design, blending traditional regional narratives with contemporary expression.

Moderator

Aleena Khan - A brand strategist, speaker, and co-founder of the award-winning CTZN Cosmetics. Beginning her career at Snapchat’s global HQ, she now hosts the business podcast Full Disclosure with Aleena Khan and designs creative workshops for global brands like Mastercard. She specializes in translating digital culture and platform strategy into insight-driven conversations on brand positioning and cultural relevance.

Visual credit line

Pair of earrings, 11th century

Syria

Gold; filigree and granulation

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York