Description of Challenge
Preserving and conserving intangible cultural heritage. Reconnecting with nature using traditional handicrafts and culture.
Solution
Embroidery expresses and preserves the cultural identity and heritage of communities around the world. It promotes awareness of the importance of handicrafts in shaping and solidifying identity.
Embroidery’s unique shapes, colors and textures can identify the origins of the craftsmen/women and the surrounding environment that is reflected in their work. Common patterns can embody the rich history and culture of the land and the people, providing a beautiful illustration of communities past and heritage.
The patterns and design include indigenous flowers, trees, geometrical shapes and colors. Embroidered day dresses (in Arabic: Thob) are still worn today by women of rural areas throughout Palestine and the Arab World.
Each area has distinct designs that can be used to identify the history, location and wealth of the family or clan. Men also wear traditional costumes that use fine materials available, ranging from cotton to silk, silver and gold cords and linen.
Palestinian embroidery has become an important symbol of the Palestinian culture.
