L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts in Dubai, will unveil the Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection exhibition from November 7, 2024, to April 26, 2025. This exhibition, held in strategic partnership with Dubai Design District (d3), brings Yves Gastou’s remarkable collection of men’s rings to the Middle East for the first time. Showcasing the evolution of men’s rings—from symbols of unity to expressions of personal style and artistry—the exhibition celebrates the late French collector and antique art dealer’s unique legacy.
The impressive collection stands as a testament to an extraordinary quest, embodying a man’s 40-year passion. As the largest edition of the exhibition, featuring more than 700 exceptional rings, Men’s Rings centers on five themes to allow an immersive exploration of the collector’s personal taste: History, Gothic, Christian Mysticism, Vanitas and Eclecticism.
The opening of this remarkable exhibition marks a significant moment in the region’s art and design calendar as L’ÉCOLE Middle East will coincide with the milestone 10th edition of Dubai Design Week, the region’s leading design festival taking place November 5th to 10th in strategic partnership with d3, a global creative ecosystem by TECOM Group. A public open day will take place on Saturday, November 9th, inviting the whole community to experience L’ÉCOLE Middle East’s course demonstrations, kids workshops, guided tours and activities. These exciting events bring together two pillars of the cultural landscape, offering an unprecedented opportunity for visitors to explore the intersection of jewelry, art and design.
“We are thrilled to present the ‘Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection’ in Dubai, a city that perfectly balances tradition with modernity,” said Sophie Claudel, Director of L’ÉCOLE Middle East. “Our collaboration during Dubai Design Week is a testament to the vibrant and dynamic cultural scene here. Additionally, we are excited to welcome students back to our school with a wider array of courses, ensuring that the art of jewelry continues to inspire and educate.”
“The universe of design is vast and extraordinary. This inspiring exhibition by L’ÉCOLE Middle East emphasizes just how versatile its disciplines and crafts can be,” said Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District (d3) – part of TECOM Group. “This exhibition is an exciting addition to Dubai Design Week, of which we are strategic partners. Through such events, valued partners like L’ÉCOLE enrich d3’s community and continue to expand the dialogue of design, fashion and art, positioning Dubai as the beating heart of the creative industry.”
We are delighted to welcome L’ÉCOLE Middle East’s exhibition ‘Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection’, taking place in Dubai Design District (d3) during Dubai Design Week,” comments Natasha Carella, Director of Dubai Design Week. “This exhibition not only enriches our programme, adding to the diversity and depth of design disciplines, but by highlighting the artistry and historical significance of jewelry, L’ÉCOLE fosters a dialogue that resonates with our commitment to foster creative exchange, as well as inspire, educate and connect the wider community.”
Yves Gastou, a reputable antique and sculptural furniture dealer, had a taste for pushing curatorial boundaries. His gallery in Paris opened in 1986 and was an iconic showcase of his daring esthetics. Gastou was also an avid collector and, among his all-encompassing treasure trove, he orchestrated a jewelry collection dedicated to men’s rings which he would not just keep as enviable rarity, neither offer for sale, but wear as proud regalia.
