Mina Abouzahra

The art of weaving by Mina Abouzhara

Mina Abouzahra is a designer and furniture maker. Born to Moroccan immigrants in the Netherlands, she learned to navigate and intertwine diverse cultures, shaping the essence of her design and interior style. Her journey led her to Morocco, where she developed a deep passion for the art of weaving. After extensive research into culture, technique, and history, weaving became the focal point of her creative endeavors.

Abouzahra's artworks, interior designs, and furniture pieces represent a harmonious fusion of Moroccan craftsmanship and Dutch Design, serving as a tribute to cultural heritage. Abouzahra frequently collaborates with a weaving cooperative in rural Morocco, striving to provide its female artisans with both a platform and fair compensation for their skills.

As the visionary behind the art project ONE SQUARE METER BERBER, Abouzahra sheds light on the challenges encountered by Moroccan weavers, sparking discussions about the true value of their craft. Through collaborations with renowned designers and artisans, she seeks to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, breathing new life into age-old techniques. In 2023, Abouzahra embarked on a transformative journey, immersing herself in a year-long residency at the women's weaving cooperative in South Morocco. Amidst the rhythmic clatter of looms, she refined her skills and deepened her connections with the community, collaborating on new independent projects and a carpet collection with esteemed designers such as Edith van Berkel and Bertjan Pot.

Abouzahra’s work was acquired by the Central Museum and showcased in exhibitions at the Jewish Historical Museum, Van Eesteren Museum, Jan Museum, Wereldmuseum Amsterdam, COBRA Museum and Muiderslot. For her OSMB Paper, Abouzahra received the Dutch Creativity Award and European Design Award in 2022. In the coming year, her creations will be featured at Het Nieuwe Instituut and Amsterdam Museum.