Being an artist in Jordan is challenging as it is; considering the country’s worsening economy, and the massive role it plays due to being located in the most sensitive region of the middle-east. Surrounded by Iraq, Palestine, and Syria. Welcoming refugees for decades have taken its toll on the conditions for both locals and evidently the refugees themselves. However, being a refugee artist in Jordan manages to be even more challenging. Our goal at Roots Studio is to help struggling artists who are gifted and excel at indigenous forms of art relating to their context and daily life. Calligraphy is an artform on the edge of extinction, and yet these artists cannot find a platform to market their work and unique talents.

The women embroiderers of East Jerusalem live in the villages of Sur Baher and Umm Tuba, with some hailing from nearby Palestinian villages south of Jerusalem. While deeply rooted in their Palestinian identity, they also forge meaningful connections and integration with Western Israeli society. Their coexistence is evident in the friendship and interpersonal relationships they maintain with women from West Jerusalem and Israelis in general, including participating in joint meetings for embroidery, with the support of the Jerusalem Municipality Center. Historically, the colorful Palestinian embroidery adorned with gold threads was reserved for royalty and nobility as it was crafted by skilled artisans. Traditionally created by women at home, this art reflects their beliefs and traditions, wonderfully preserving the multicultural heritage of erstwhile Palestine through ancient motifs and knowledge passed down through generations. Photo by Yael Ilan Palestinian embroiderers typically learn their craft from their mothers, using traditional techniques and patterns from villages like Bethlehem, Negev, Jaffa, Tiberias, and Hait Khalil, and sometimes incorporate modern patterns such as flowers and decorative motifs.