Ba, MADE DESIGN
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Ba was invited to exhibit at the inaugural launch of MADE Design in May, alongside regional designers and makers. The four-day forum was part the Diriyah Art Islamic Biennale programming at the Western Hajj Terminal in Jeddah.
Courtesy of Diriyah Islamic Biennale Foundation
Ba introduced a series of handmade tapestry designs derived from Arabic calligraphy, fitting the cultural landscape. Presented in a hall amongst ceramicists, glassware and furniture designers highlighting the region's diverse, thriving design community.
Salma Barakat Dusk handmade Tapestry at MADE Design Forum
Language Unknown tapestry inspired by Arabic Calligraphy, video courtesy of Diriyah Biennale Foundation
Dawn Tapestry by Salma Barakat at MADE DESIGN, Diriyah Biennale Foundation, Jeddah
Salma Barakat joined a panel discussion, moderated by Sybel Vazquez, alongside textile artist Ishraq Zraikat and architectural designer Pauline LePrince to discuss our responsibilities as designers when working with historical material. In response to the ethics of reinterpretation, we shared the importance for contemporary designers and makers to remain rooted in traditional processes.
The foundation’s initiative shone a positive light on Saudi Arabia's growing cultural scene following its opening of creative sector, by celebrating the historical alongside contemporary.
Overall, it was humbling to be in the company of historic Islamic objects, textiles and texts that filled the neighbouring halls, undoubtedly informing Ba’s future research + practice.
