The Material Woman

Curated by Hayaty Diaries & 3EIB

Artists
Yasmina Hilal, Zayn Qahtani & Hanya Elghamry

Designers
Celine Dagher, Nadine Mos & Hanan Sharifa

Date
17th May to 19th May, 2024

Location
Soho Revue, London 

The Material Woman is an immersive Pop-up Exhibition, Showcasing the Exceptional Talent of Three Young Contemporary Arab Women Fashion Designers and Artists. It’s inspired by the enduring spirit and artistic prowess of Arab women throughout history and in the present day, navigating the intricacies of materiality, culture, and social dynamics through craft.

Historically, Arab women have long engaged in practices such as needlework, embroidery, and tapestry. In the Mid-20th century, craftsmanship gained renewed significance for women artists, evolving into an artistic form of decolonisation and female empowerment in the region.

Today, we witness the formidable force of women shaping contemporary fashion and art with their hands. In this celebration of legacy and innovation, each featured designer and artist offers a distinct perspective on materiality, bridging past traditions with modern interpretations. From fabrics cascading from the walls to experiments with latex, metalwork, and beyond, these creatives redefine the concept of 'A Material Woman', using their hands as a tool of creative empowerment and liberation. Defying the stereotype of a materialistic woman, they harness the magic in their hands to dismantle, reconstruct, and create anew.