Ismail, who graduated from the Master's degree in Art Direction (Creation & Design stream) in 2023, has been awarded a prize at the AlUla Design Awards 2024 for his "Skinlal" creation. This prestigious prize honours designs inspired by AlUla's rich cultural, natural and artistic heritage. Find out more about his work on his website.

Digital Emotions: Ismail's innovative methodology

A freelance art director based in Paris, Ismail works on multidisciplinary projects in digital design, print, scenography, architecture and communication under the name "ismail designs". He graduated from the IIM in 2023 and the American University of Beirut in 2017, and sees design as an opportunity for cross-cultural collaboration. His methodology, "digital emotions", explores the interconnection between human behaviour, emotion, sustainability, technology, history and culture.

What is Skinlal?

Winner of the AlUla Design Awards 2024, "Skinlal" is a dromedary blanket handmade from natural local cotton. Inspired by AlUla's ecosystem and culture, this project combines tradition and innovation to promote sustainability. Ismail has used motifs based on Nabataean inscriptions and indigenous flora to create a blanket that is both functional and artistic.

His studies at IIM

Ismail chose the Masters in Art Direction at IIM to enrich his skills in graphic and digital design, complementing his degree in architecture. He recommends to students that they clarify their professional goals and take part in design competitions to explore new ideas and develop their skills:
"Be clear about your image and goals to easily find internships and jobs. Take part in design competitions to test your skills and work with colleagues who complement your skills."

Find out more in the dedicated article (french version).