This May, L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, continues its mission to democratize jewelry education by offering a new series of public courses, engaging talks, and digital content that makes the world of jewelry accessible, meaningful, and richly layered. As part of its growing cultural footprint in the region, L’ÉCOLE invites participants of all ages to discover the savoir-faire, history, and symbolism behind jewelry’s most iconic forms and functions. From hands-on workshops to scholarly conversation, this spring’s programming provides a rare opportunity to connect with the beauty, heritage, and artistry of jewelry in ways both personal and profound.
Among the highlights is “Design to Mock-Up,” a new four-hour adult course in jewelry savoir-faire. This practical session allows participants to follow the creative journey of jewelry-making, from the initial sketch to a gouaché illustration and ultimately, a three-dimensional pewter mock-up. The course’s chosen motif—a butterfly—is a nod to transformation, delicacy, and the tradition of nature-inspired design so emblematic of Van Cleef & Arpels. Participants leave not just with a model in hand, but with a deeper understanding of the intricate processes that turn artistic vision into wearable art. Another addition to the lineup is “The Power of Jewelry: Amulets, Talismans and Lucky Charms,” an adult art history course that spans empires and centuries. Through the lens of mysticism, symbolism, and belief, this four-hour session delves into the way humans have imbued jewelry with protective and talismanic properties. Drawing connections from ancient Egypt to Hollywood glamour, this class underscores the way jewels have always functioned as vessels of memory, spirituality, and identity.
For younger creatives, L’ÉCOLE offers “Create Your Own Ring,” a joyful two-hour workshop designed for children aged 9 to 11. Using rhinestones, feathers, and mosaic materials, young participants are introduced to the playful side of jewelry design while developing their imagination and craftsmanship. It’s a welcoming space where creativity is encouraged and the seed of curiosity about fine arts is planted early on.
Complementing these interactive courses are two engaging lectures—open to the public both online and in person. On May 13, attendees can join an online session titled “Renaissance: A Golden Age of Jewelry.” This digital conversation will guide participants through one of the most opulent eras of jewelry design, when both men and women adorned themselves in finery that reflected not just taste, but status and intellect. Drawing from the era’s fascination with classical antiquity, the talk uncovers the profound blend of technical innovation and artistic symbolism that defined the Renaissance court. Then, on May 14, the Dubai campus hosts “Talismans, Gems and Marvels”—an evocative in-person talk that explores the longstanding human desire to find protection, luck, and meaning in objects worn close to the skin. Drawing on examples from ancient and modern history, this session delves into the emotional and spiritual weight that jewelry has carried throughout time.
Outside of its classroom walls, L’ÉCOLE also extends its educational ethos to the digital realm with its newly launched podcast series, “Voice of Jewels.” Created in collaboration with historians, researchers, and scriptwriters Martin Quenehen and Aram Kebabdjian, and voiced by actor Edoardo Ballerini, each ten-minute episode offers an immersive, story-driven exploration of legendary jewels and their impact across time and culture. Available in both English and French, the podcast serves as a portable entry point into jewelry’s rich narratives—whether you’re a scholar or simply an admirer.
What truly sets L’ÉCOLE Middle East apart, however, is its commitment to education as a form of giving back. All proceeds from its public courses and lectures are donated to Dubai Cares, supporting youth education and empowerment initiatives. It’s a gesture that aligns perfectly with the school’s broader vision: to inspire curiosity, promote knowledge, and make the world of jewelry a shared cultural heritage.
Whether you’re tracing the arc of a golden age, crafting your first ring, or discovering the talismanic power of a gem, L’ÉCOLE’s spring programming offers something rare and enriching—a chance to see jewelry not merely as adornment, but as a mirror of human creativity and connection.
