One of the most iconic Palestinian emblems is Tatreez, a 3000 year-old cross-stitched embroidery technique commonly shown on Palestinian dresses and clothing. It is so significant to Palestinian culture, heritage and identity that UNESCO has added it to its representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This acknowledgement may not appear substantial, but to Palestinians it means the world. Tatreez has, for years, symbolised Palestinian resilience and resistance, with the country’s long history of turmoil and tragedy. The historic art of Tatreez acts as an emblem of the people’s fight for freedom, which is why several Palestinian designers have incorporated it into their designs.
Meera Adnan as one of the many Palestinian designers to incorporate this historic tradition into her clothing, specifically within her latest collection in collaboration with fellow Palestinian creative, Farah (@farahstiniyah). Adnan’s contemporary ready-to-wear label is based in Gaza, a city that has been under siege and a blockade for over a decade. To create a business and have it thrive and reach cities beyond the strict borders her city is under is not only impressive, but an example of how Palestinian creativity and influence can never be caged and can escape even the harshest of borders.
The collaboration between the two Palestinians is named Harvest Season, and is an ode to the nature and fruition of their country.
Below, Meera shares their idea behind the collection and why it is important to them to incorporate and cherish Palestinian Tatreez.
“The collection is an amalgamation of old, new, boundaries and the limitless exploration of Palestinian tradition and its art. When we started discussing initial ideas, we were immediately caught up in the vision of bringing to life authentic Palestinian Tatreez (embroidery) designs with warm yet bold colours that honour this special time of year, harvest season.
Palestine’s horticultural footprint is unique, vast, and enduring thanks to our continued resistance and preservation efforts. Something that is undeniable about every Palestinian, from near or afar, is our impassioned love for our land and the fruits and flowers it bears for us. And so, each pattern represents a certain element of this diverse landscape. From the Flora of Palestine, to the orange blossoms and strawberries embedded within specific patterns, there is intention in every small etch and design in each of the patterns created for this special collaboration.
Our hope was to not stray away from the authentic trademark Palestinian Tatreez while telling a story of renewal and rebirth, the marriage of old and new, of fall and winter and our relationship with the land that nurtures us through it all.”
The Harvest Collection is now available to shop here.
