By Maryam Al-Homaid
Material description: 100% handmade, 100% natural wool
A brief description: The "S_HE" rug is a
thought-provoking piece exploring societal dynamics and gender roles. Featuring
a man and a woman in traditional attire, the rug's unique design allows for
versatile placement—facing each other or apart. This flexibility symbolizes the
nuanced dance of agreement and disagreement, encouraging contemplation on the
fluid nature of human relationships. The artwork prompts reflection on cultural
norms surrounding gender roles, using its dual figures to initiate conversations
about societal expectations. With its thematic richness and visual narrative,
the "S/He" rug serves as a condensed yet impactful exploration of
agreement, disagreement, and gender dynamics within a cultural context.
Hand-woven / Hand-dyed wool
Dimension: 140 x 80 x 0
Maryam is an interdisciplinary Artist with a Bachelor's in Fine Arts and a Master’s degree in Design Studies from VCU Arts Qatar. Currently, she serves as an Assistant Professor in the Graphic Design Department. Maryam envisions a symbiotic relationship between technology-based mediums and the DIY culture, acting as bridges connecting contemporary high-tech expressions with the traditional crafts of the Arabian Gulf. Her recent artistic endeavors are inspired by her experiences as a millennial in Qatar, where she has witnessed substantial economic and social changes. These transformations in various aspects such as lifestyles, language, behaviors, technology, and architecture greatly influence her artistic approach. Rather than dwelling on nostalgia, Maryam’s work embraces the evolution of these memories over time.
Recent Recognitions:
2024 AD100 Middle East
2024 Asia Design Prize (Gold Prize)
2024 Design Doha Prize Finalist (Crafts)