We are a home-grown, invite-only, B2B community sharing Africa and the Levant's rich heritage with the world. While being deeply rooted in the values of "ubuntu" (meaning "I am, because we are"), we are bringing together businesses and communities through our curated collection of one-of-a-kind art tapestries. At the heart of our mission is a desire to share our distinctive tales and craftsmanship with the world — for all to experience. We are not merely vendors, but rather purveyors of a unique vision to decommodify our life's work, reclaim narratives, and reshape perceptions whilst developing the fine art of craftsmanship.
We are cultivating a sustainable ecosystem that enriches and empowers our communities, one that is also deeply committed to elevating the conditions of the most vulnerable among us, while simultaneously fostering deep and meaningful connections that transcend borders.
Through this unwavering commitment, we build to lay the foundations for a legacy that endures far beyond our fleeting existence; to leave an indelible impact that resonates with the very essence of humanity, enriching the lives of all those who come into contact with it, for generations to come.
Welcome to heart-made goodness.
Welcome to obuntō.
An Insightful Strategies subsidiary.
Hand-weaving as Art.
Hand-weaving as Art.
Art Centre
These meticulously crafted pieces take months to complete, guided only by their imagination.
No sketches. No designs. Imagine the possibilities.
Established in 1952, our partner's legacy endures to this day.
What sets this place apart is its unwavering belief in the boundless creativity of the human spirit, as evidenced by their weaving process devoid of any sketches or designs. The intricately complex works that grace their looms, painstakingly crafted over months, are born from the very fabric of everyday life, reflecting its myriad expressions. While these images offer glimpses of their artistry, they fail to capture the true essence of its vibrant hues and resplendent magnificence.
These are one-of-a-kind, pieces of art — never reproduced or copied.
And you won’t find them anywhere else in the world.
“The sense of colour and rhythm, the instinctive feeling for the play of shapes and composition are the innate gifts of the child.
These will atrophy and die if they are not brought into action.”
— R. W.
Options for Collaboration
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The artist crafts exquisite works of art, skilfully bringing to life their visions and ideas, free from any external influences or constraints.
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The artist's creative process unfolds as they are entrusted with a theme, conveyed through spoken words that encompass colours, imagery, places, and various descriptive elements. Drawing from this verbal tapestry of inspiration, the weaver skilfully brings forth their craft, meticulously crafting a tapestry that reflects the essence of the given inputs.
NOTE
Currently, only 21 pieces are available in stock.
Depending on the size and complexity, lead times range from 90 to 270 days. Client partners have the right to refuse the end product (please inquire).
Artisans are employed by our partner and they receive 1/3 of the purchase price. Even when pieces are not sold, artisans are paid a monthly salary and are always provided accommodation.
Client partner covers international shipping costs.
“The creative energy of the average person is being sapped by an abstract conformist system of education, and by the extension of industrial techniques infiltrating every field.
But while the machine threatens to reduce human beings to passivity, it also frees them to develop a potential that will wither away if it does not find real fields for action.”
—R. W., 1911-1974
The Tentmakers of Cairo.
The Tentmakers of Cairo.
Tentmakers
Also known as the ‘KHAYAMIYA’, the tentmakers are open to collaboration with ambitious and innovative projects by international artists, architects, designers, and even book illustrators.
-The Tentmakers of Cairo, by Dr. Seif El Rashidi
In the proximity of Bab Zuweila, one of the three remaining town gates hailing from the Cairo of the illustrious Fatimid dynasty, an adept khayamiya artisan occupies a modest workshop. In a posture of devoted concentration, he bends over a substantial canvas of heavy calico, his nimble fingers maneuvering with a seasoned grace and efficiency that speaks volumes of his extensive expertise. Upon this pristine canvas, he meticulously sews a narrative of vibrant hues and dynamic motion. These grand appliqué tapestries, reminiscent of a bygone era, once adorned the interiors of desert tents and pavilions.
Enthralled by the artistic potential inherent in this craft, a distinguished foreign artist and designer—whose creations are showcased here—initiated a collaborative venture with these venerable custodians of Egypt's living heritage. Together, they embarked on the creation of contemporary fabric frescoes, deftly bridging the gap between the past and the present. These evocative artworks delicately immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the Nile Valley's history and culture, infusing a renewed vitality and captivating a fresh audience for an art form on the brink of endangerment.
How it works with the Tentmakers
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Client partner shares design or concept with us.
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Our team shares design/concept with our tentmaker partner(s). Team goes over details and ships a 1’x1’ sample, if requested. All samples are $150.
If client partner approves, a quotation is provided.
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As client partner approves quotation, 50% upfront payment is required to initiate work, and remaining 50% upon receipt.
Depending on size and complexity of project, lead times can take anywhere between 100 days to 182 days.
Note: Client partner covers international shipping costs and they must also provide a waybill.
