Story
ZENA SABBAGH
Originally from Aleppo, Zena was forced to flee Syria in 2012 and re-settle in Lebanon. Fascinated by craft from a young age she sought inspiration in the antique printing stamps she found in the souks of Aleppo as a child. This passion led her to set up her atelier in Beirut where she now works with other displaced women to create unique textiles. Check out our short video of Zena's workshop by Louise Gholam.
THE IMPACT
Each quilt is hand-crafted in Zena's atelier, which has become a home for female artisans fleeing conflict in Iraq, Palestine and Syria, as well as Lebanese women. As Lebanon spirals deeper into economic crisis and despair, these artisans are increasingly vulnerable. Your purchase not only provides employment but also, as they describe, a "remedy" for coping with the trauma of the recent blast.
THE TECHNIQUE
Each quilt is hand-stitched using locally woven linens, cotton inner wadding and thread. The applique technique is inspired by the quilts Zena created with a group of Bedouin women in Salamiyah, Syria.
THE DESIGN
The quilt is inspired by the geometric details that decorate Beirut's buildings. We designed the quilt last year before the explosion on 04.08.20 that destroyed some of the city's most important and historical architectural landmarks, as well as museums, galleries, residences and residencies. The design now feels tragically relevant.
