About

The ‘Crafts of Qatar’ exhibition showcases Qatari Al Sadu textiles and woodcarving, providing a unique insight into the country’s cultural heritage and traditional arts.

Al Sadu is a traditional form of weaving that is native to the Bedouin tribes of Qatar and other Gulf countries. It involves weaving goat, sheep and camel hair, naturally dyed with different pigments, into intricate patterns using a ground loom. It features ancient geometric patterns that echo the colours and shapes of the desert. The production of this textile in desert society, as well as in coastal settlements, was central to community life, and its use in making functional objects allowed for greater efficiency and an expression of identity. 

Al Sadu went beyond handicraft or artisanal and cultural practice. Within the traditional nomadic lifestyle, Al Sadu was involved in the making of the tent and its different parts, including those that segregated the tents in different areas. As such, it was architecture as well as an expression of tribal and gender identity. These textiles allow us to trace the creativity and history of a people living between the  desert and the sea. The main transmitters of Al Sadu are elderly Bedouin women who are master weavers. They play a central role in passing on these relevant skills to others, most often within the family. In addition, associations and educational organisations can pass down the skills and knowledge of Al Sadu. Through the activities of the Creative Residency, Caravane Earth maintains, promotes and works to preserve the craft of  Al Sadu. 

Woodcarving is an ancient art form that involves carving wood into decorative or functional objects. Qatar has a rich history of woodcarving, with craftsmen producing everything from furniture and doors to utensils and decorative items. 

On Saturday 13th April, join Al Sadu Master weaver, Maytha Sayed, and Farah Al Yasin, Head of Caravane Earth Creative Residency, for a discussion on the challenges and opportunities of revitalization of Al Sadu practice in Qatar, the engagement of craftswomen, visibility and market access.

About Caravane Earth
Caravane Earth is an international foundation with a mission to seed, practice and promote ethical entrepreneurship and wellbeing through art, craft, architecture, agriculture and education. Their activity has three different optics: social, cultural and ecological. Caravane Earth’s mission lies not only in in-depth practical research and creative work in these three areas, but also in connecting them together and considering them as a whole. They support traditional crafts and artisans, celebrate cultural heritage and practice, as well as providing the transfer of knowledge, community building and economic opportunities.