In anticipation of UAE National Day, artist Farida Talaat initiates a unique project, rallying the sewing community to collaborate on a special patchwork quilt. The theme, “What the UAE Means to Me,” inspires participants from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to contribute individual sections, each serving as a personal narrative capturing their connection to the UAE on its 52nd National Day.
Crafting Personal Stories Through Quilt Patches
Talaat emphasizes the personal touch of each quilt patch, stating, “Each quilt patch square would tell its quiltmaker’s story, reflecting on their journey in the country.” Crafting methods include knitting, crochet, cross-stitchery, appliqués, beadwork, and hand- and machine-embroidery.
Symbolism of UAE Icons in the Quilt: Patchwork Quilt
The quilt showcases iconic UAE symbols such as palm trees, camels, sand dunes, dates, a map of the country, and a henna-adorned hand. Each square depicts the beauty of the desert and conveys the nuanced meanings of home, community, family, and the future, representing the diverse perspectives of expatriates in the UAE.
Motivation Behind the Project
Motivated by her love for her adopted home, Talaat, a Canadian national living in the UAE since childhood, views the patchwork quilt as a heartfelt testament to her connection with the country. Drawing a parallel between the quilt and the UAE, she stated, “Much like a patchwork quilt is made of a heterogeneous mix of mismatched fabric, so is the UAE; a melting pot of nationalities and cultures that live together in harmony.”
Collaborative Creation Process: Patchwork Quilt
The project began in summer when Talaat invited fellow quilters and members of the quilting society to design and create a quilt block measuring 10-by-10 inches. Ten participants from various parts of the UAE joined forces, contributing unique squares with personal stories about what the UAE means to them.
Diverse Expressions of Connection
Participants from Algeria, Egypt, India, and Canada contributed squares with themes ranging from ‘Family’ to symbolic representations of iconic landmarks and the UAE flag. Each square becomes a unique expression of the contributor’s enduring connection to the UAE.
Symbolic Depictions and Parallelism with the UAE
Malika Rehman, a UAE resident for over four decades, depicted a kneeling camel and palm tree in a sandy dune setting, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the UAE. Farida Talaat contributed her own square, incorporating fabrics in shades of blue and green, representing the sea and lush greenery in the desert.
Celebrating Unity Through a Patchwork of Stories
As the quilt comes together, it becomes a celebration of unity and diversity. Talaat expresses her satisfaction, stating, “I’m glad I was able to bring together a group of passionate crafters connected by their crafting skills and their love for the UAE.” The patchwork quilt stands as a patriotic and sentimental piece of collaborative art.
Reflecting on the Meaning of the UAE
Reflecting on the process, Farida said: “It feels so good to connect with friends and complete strangers in an entrepreneurial way and foster a wonderful and inspiring conversation around our shared love and appreciation for our second home. And this is what the UAE means to me.”
Celebrating Unity Through a Patchwork of Stories
As the quilt comes together, it becomes a celebration of unity and diversity. Talaat expresses her satisfaction, stating, “I’m glad I was able to bring together a group of passionate crafters connected by their crafting skills and their love for the UAE.” The patchwork quilt stands as a patriotic and sentimental piece of collaborative art.
Reflecting on the Meaning of the UAE
Reflecting on the process, Farida said: “It feels so good to connect with friends and complete strangers in an entrepreneurial way and foster a wonderful and inspiring conversation around our shared love and appreciation for our second home. And this is what the UAE means to me.”
