French Illustrator Collaborates with Afghan Women Weavers to Create Stunning Rugs
Louis Barthélemy, a French illustrator and designer with a passion for textiles, has embarked on a unique collaboration with women weavers in Afghanistan to create a capsule collection of exquisite rugs. Commissioned by Ishkar, a London-based company that works with NGOs and artisans in conflict-affected regions, Barthélemy’s collection is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Afghan people.
Despite the challenges posed by the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021, Barthélemy and the weavers were determined to bring their vision to life. The collaboration began with a simple request from Barthélemy: draw a place that symbolizes beauty. Many of the women chose the historic Bagh-e Babur in Kabul, a 14th-century garden that holds special significance for them.
The drawings were then transformed into intricate patterns for three different rugs, each hand-knotted from Ghazni Wool over a period of six months. The result, according to Barthélemy, is “a collective dream of an ancient paradise” woven into each rug.
The rugs will be on display in London at Sunbury Workshops from April 24-26 and at the Ishkar flagship showroom through September. Priced at around $4,000, these stunning creations are not just pieces of art but also a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the beauty and craftsmanship of these unique rugs, a true testament to the power of collaboration and creativity in the face of adversity.
