US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, Evyenia Sidereas, was the guest of honor on the occasion, who held a scarf at the exhibition site to mark the opening of the event. Several dignitaries, including Greek Ambassador Eleni Michalopoulou, were present at the exhibition, which is open to visitors until August 30.
From right: Evyenia Sidereas, Lauren Michelle Morell and Sarah Hannibal along with an M7 official at the exhibition.
Designed and curated by Lauren Michelle Morell, a 2020 graduate of the Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, the exhibit aims to raise awareness of the environmental impacts of fast fashion and pay homage to the sustainable Bedouin of Qatar and indigenous American textile traditions through cross-culture. clothing.
Rooted in both Qatari and Native American cultures, the exhibit showcases innovative approaches to preserving traditional and sustainable practices, highlighting Qatari sadu weaving and Native American patterns.
Another view of some of the exhibits.
In contrast to the production of modern fashion, the garments embody traditional, environmentally friendly textiles and promote the legacy of zero-waste processes. Lauren and her weaving partner, Sarah Hannibal, help viewers trace Qatari and American traditions and reflect on the sourcing and sustainable application of textiles and fabrics.
In addition to the clothing, the exhibition features a short documentary tracing the traditions of sadus, filmed in collaboration with Heenat Salma Farm and Caravane Earth. The exhibition focuses on heritage conservation, sustainability and diversity, achieving the ethos of cultures in harmony.
Evyenia Sidereas along with Lauren Michelle Morell pin a scarf at the exhibition site. PHOTO: Thajudheen
Speaking of Gulf TimesMorell said it took her more than three months to complete the garments in collaboration with Sarah Hannibal’s Weaving in Doha. “All clothing is made from recycled materials. For their realization, I used curtain materials, blankets, carpets, among others. A total of 10 garments were designed and presented at the exhibition besides other products.”
The designer said she plans to produce more such displays in the coming months.
The exhibition is funded by a grant from the US Department of State.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the exhibition, Sidereas said the exhibition is one aspect of the growing ties between the US and Qatar.
“Climate change is a key topic for Qatar and the US and we are looking at every opportunity to improve environmentally sustainable and innovative technologies. We always focus on sustainable products and this exhibition is an example with the use of recycled materials and is one of the main themes we want to highlight through this exhibition. The US is committed to supporting programs that reduce carbon emissions, improve wastewater generation capacity, and promote the mutual values of self-expression and cultural preservation. This exhibition highlights the importance of achieving environmentally friendly practices in every field, including fashion,” said Sidereas.
She also noted that there will be many more events coming up this year to mark the milestone of 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and the annual strategic dialogue between the US and Qatar is also being planned.
Morell is a contemporary Latin American designer whose work is inextricably linked to redefining tradition. A Puerto Rican citizen, she grew up in different parts of the world, enriched by many cultures and studied in different countries and regions.
