Story
The Artisan
“Doing embroidery reminds me of my house and my home and my country. It reminds me of my grandmother and my mother, of my best memories and moments in my life. Embroidery connects me with my heritage, the beauty of our heritage and the beauty of our past.”
- Oshana artisan, Fayrouz
The Design
Inspired by ancient Syrian stories, artefacts and culture, every stitch on these striking cushions is embroidered by hand using natural fibres by Syrian women. In traditional Middle Eastern embroidery, the palm is the symbol of life itself. They were the only trees that could grow in the desert. Their dates gave sweetness, and their shade offered shelter. The Palmyra cushions are part of a collaboration between social enterprise Oshana and artist Joan Hecktermann.
The Impact
70% of the sale goes to Oshana, which was established inside Syria in 2012 in response to the escalating war and it’s devastating consequences for families all over the country. Today, Oshana works with women to create exquisite hand-embroidered and hand-crocheted items, providing a crucial income, a supportive community, and a creative outlet for trauma.