The Zwara exhibition held at M7 showcased innovative furniture designs from four promising talents in Qatar, merging traditional influences with contemporary styles. This marked the grand opening of the exhibition, which was the result of a ten-month mentorship program dedicated to nurturing emerging designers.
At the event, the Learning Space of M7 was filled with original works that highlighted the creative abilities of these designers. Notable attendees included prominent figures from the Qatari creative community, including Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi, the CEO of Qatar Museums, and Maha Al Sulatiti, the Director of M7.
This year’s exhibition drew inspiration from last year’s "Masterpieces of Furniture Design" event at M7, which was held in collaboration with Germany’s Vitra Design Museum. Al Sulititi emphasized the role of design at M7, explaining that the focus extends beyond fashion to encompass all aspects of creativity, providing a platform for self-expression for both the nation and its individuals.
Featured Designers:
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Hammam Al Abdulla: A Qatari interior designer known for his ‘Nusj’ chair, which blends elements of Qatari heritage and Western modernism. The name ‘Nusj’ means "to weave" and the design emphasizes traditional motifs along with local materials. Al Abdulla’s piece reinterprets Marcel Breuer’s tubular steel designs through asymmetrical lines, honoring traditional seating arrangements while integrating woven textiles that reflect the Qatari Al Sadu weaving tradition.
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Abdul Basit: His ‘WeaveO’ console draws inspiration from Gerrit Rietveld’s early 20th-century ‘Red Blue Chair’. Basit’s design philosophy revolves around the reconsideration of cultural heritage in modern contexts. He draws from local textiles and their uses in Bedouin life to create his designs, infusing modern forms with traditional geometric patterns from Al Sadu.
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Galyiah Almohannadi: An interior and furniture designer, Almohannadi presented her ‘Saraab’ piece, an interactive bookcase characterized by rotating structures. Inspired by Charlotte Perriand’s iconic work, ‘Saraab’ invites users to engage in a journey of imagination and exploration, combining local materials and colors with a unique design approach.
- Stephen Amoyo: A multidisciplinary designer, Amoyo created ‘The Waiting Chair’, a design that merges the styles of Virgil Abloh and Jean Prouvé. His work reflects broader community influences and represents a fusion of artistic disciplines, emphasizing collaboration between different forms of art, such as dance and photography.
The Zwara exhibition not only highlights the impressive talent within Qatar’s creative scene but also serves as a celebration of cultural identity, integrating traditional elements with innovative design. It reflects a commitment to fostering creativity and supporting emerging designers in their journey to redefine modern furniture design.
