This year’s Dubai Design Week is spotlighting a diverse range of global talent, including rising Filipino architect Gerald Jason Cruz. An ambitious creative in the fields of architecture and design, Cruz brings a unique perspective shaped by his experience growing up in Manila, Philippines. His showcased installation, Tbaba, pays homage to the traditional pearl diving heritage of the Arabian Gulf, capturing the spirit of a bygone era in the region’s maritime history.
Cruz, a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a minor in Design from New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), collaborated on Tbaba with fellow NYUAD alumna Roudhah Al Mazrouei. Together, they have crafted a piece that centers on the iconic red cloth historically used to preserve freshly harvested pearls, symbolizing the meticulous care and respect for the region’s valuable resource. This vibrant installation reflects their shared appreciation for cultural preservation, highlighting architecture and design’s role in connecting the past with the present.
Tbaba is only the latest in Cruz’s impressive portfolio. He has gained extensive experience through internships at prominent firms across Europe, the Middle East, the United States, and Southeast Asia, including Aidea, the largest architecture firm in the Philippines. His dedication and talent have earned him several prestigious awards, including the 2022 Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award and the 2021 Abu Dhabi Art Pavilion Prize. His works have been showcased globally in venues spanning the Philippines, the UAE, India, the US, and Singapore.
Dubai Design Week 2024, taking place from November 5 to 10 at Dubai Design District (d3), features over 500 designers from more than 40 countries, with Cruz and Al Mazrouei’s Tbaba among the key installations. This annual event celebrates innovative design across architecture, digital art, fashion, and more, aiming to foster dialogue within the global design community.
