Story
The Artisan
“I feel I am flying high as I am earning my living and being independent. It helps me pay rent and get food for my children, as well as be creative and feel a sense of achievement."
- Oshana artisan, Fatima.
The Design
Palms were of central significance to the Syrians of old. They relied on the dates and the welcome shade spread by the only tree that would grow in the desert.
And so, in traditional Arabic cross-stitch embroidery (‘tatreez’), the palm tree motif is often used as the symbol of life itself. You can see it here in the geometric frond design in the three central panels of this rich cushion.
Working in the tradition of tatreez, every stitch on these cushions is hand-stitched by Syrian refugee women, many of whom learned this craft from their mothers and grandmothers.
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.
