Saudi Arabia says “hi” to London at Craft Week 2025 (Instagram) with its exhibition, “Woven Whispers.” Curated by the Heritage Commission, this showcase honours the tradition of Sadu weaving, blending heritage with a modern perspective.
At the heart of this exhibition is the tradition of Saudi Sadu weaving, a craft rooted in history and shaped by stories of resilience, community, and cultural pride. Historically practiced by women, Sadu weaving turns humble fibres into geometric patterns, each telling a story of identity, memory, and ancestral wisdom. Today, this craft moves beyond its traditional roots, bringing together past techniques and modern design elements.
“Woven Whispers” highlights the Saudi women who have preserved this craft across generations. In the northern landscapes of Saudi Arabia – where lavender-scented breezes meet desert winds – women have long gathered to weave, sing, and share stories. Sadu weaving emerged from necessity, was shaped by tradition, and is carried on by women whose creativity and skill bring each pattern to life.
One of the exhibition’s main features is the “Threads of Hospitality” collection, inspired by the northern Saudi landscape and the soft purples of lavender—the official colour of hospitality in the Kingdom. The collection combines traditional Sadu motifs with a modern touch, using cotton instead of wool while keeping the craft’s spirit alive.
Key patterns from the collection include:
- Al-Shajarah: Vertical lines creating a sense of upward movement and visual balance.
- Al-Dalee’ah: A symmetrical, vessel-like motif with rhythmic triangular repetition.
- Al-Mathkar: Intersecting lines framing small, textured units for intricate detail.
- Hudub: Graduated, mirrored lines that add depth and rhythm.
- Al-Habbah: Rounded motifs arranged in a grid-like formation, giving a soft, repetitive look.
This collection comes from a collaboration between two artisans: Ghareeba Al-Enezi, a master weaver from the Hirfa Association in Buraidah, and Hanouf Al-Muqati, a young artist dedicated to sustaining the Sadu tradition. Together, they bring together tradition and new ideas, creating pieces that connect heritage with the present.
By blending past techniques with contemporary craftsmanship, “Woven Whispers” at London Craft Week shows how tradition can adapt while staying true to its roots.
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