Veiled Reverie
Concept
The three designs draw inspiration from the traditional elements inherent in Khayamiya designs, abstracting and employing them to reveal the intricate layers of the craft.
Drawing inspiration from the versatile designs of tapestries in Khayameya Street, the design process involved experimenting with unconventional color combinations and variations to evoke the intended sense of depth and mesmerizing effect that the craft instills in both the observer and the creator.
THE EPIGRAM
Motivated by the ancient epigrams once inscribed on old Khayamiyas, featuring colloquial sayings from the streets, I endeavored to revive this tradition. Collaborating closely with the craftsmen, we crafted a stitched poem to embellish each tapestry, reminiscent of an era when these masterpieces bore verses and texts.
The poem was composed in tandem with the artisans as they worked on the pieces, with its stitching reserved as the final step, thus honoring the heritage and craftsmanship inherent in these creations. In the poem, each of the three verses addresses a distinct theme connected to the craft: the first verse explores the concept of the craft's emergence, the second verse delves into the artisans and their legacy, while the third verse contemplates the current status and future prospects of the craft.
CREDITS
This project was created alongside the skilled artists and craftsmen: Mostafa El Leithy, Afef Fatouh, & Mohamed Fathouh.
Credits to Dr.Seif El Rashidi for his input and images archive. This project was done under the supervision of Amparo Baquerizas.
Shot in Bab Zuweila, Darb El Ahmar