tHE SOUL OF A RUG, PALAIS BAHIA
Solo Exhibition Mina Abouzahra
Palais Bahia, ‘The Soul of a Rug‘
In collaboration with Palais Bahia Mina Abouzahra opened the solo exhibition ‘The Soul of a Rug‘. The experience takes audiences into the lives of the women of Taznakht, showcasing their craftsmanship and the socioeconomic challenges they face. The Soul of a Rug celebrates ancient crafts, cultural traditions and the power of women.
The exhibition also included an VR-installation which takes the visitor to rural Taznakht to experience the rhythmic sound of village life, the refined weaving process and the spiritual connection between the craftswomen and their work
The exhibition is on display in Palais Bahia from 20th of January 2025 until 21st of May 2025.
Preserving Moroccan Weaving Traditions
In recent decades, the traditional Moroccan weaving craft has been under threat. Younger generations are opting for more lucrative professions, leaving behind the skills their mothers and grandmothers have practiced for centuries. “We’re at a turning point,” says Mina Abouzahra. “Today, we still have the opportunity to preserve this art form by recognizing its value. If we lose this knowledge, we lose a key piece of Moroccan and African identity.”
An Immersive Cultural Experience: VR installation
Palais Bahia, one of Morocco’s most visited landmarks, serves as the venue for this innovative exhibition. It has the potential to draw up to 5,000 visitors daily, many of whom later explore the city to purchase traditional Berber carpets. However, few are aware that their purchases often sustain exploitative systems that undermine the very craft they admire. Many weavers, the guardians of this ancient art, receive only a fraction of the final selling price, perpetuating cycles of economic inequity and threatening the survival of this cultural heritage.
Through VR technology, guests are transported to Taznakht’s rural landscapes at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. They will hear the rhythmic hum of village life, witness the intricate weaving process, and feel the spiritual connection between the artisans and their craft. Each vibrant rug pattern tells a unique story, reflecting centuries of tradition and cultural identity. By shedding light on these realities, the exhibition aims to foster greater appreciation for fair trade practices and the true value of these handcrafted works.
Bridging Worlds: Tradition Meets Modern Audiences
The Soul of a Rug connects the time-honored craftsmanship of Taznakht with contemporary audiences, providing a platform for female artisans to share their stories. This project not only raises awareness of the weavers’ struggles but also encourages fair compensation and ethical practices within the industry. By creating new appreciation for Berber rugs, The Soul of a Rug ensures that their cultural significance is understood and valued.
Pop-Up Gallery and Unique Design Vision
The exhibition also includes a pop-up gallery showcasing hand-knotted Berber rugs crafted by Taznakht’s artisans. Mina Abouzahra’s work uniquely combines traditional Moroccan techniques with the clean lines of Dutch design, bringing innovation to ancient art forms.