Damascus Exhibition Revives Syrian Handicrafts

In an attempt to revive the handicraft, an exhibition for Hamwi printed products was held in the Syrian capital Damascus, in an attempt to attract people.

The exhibition, organized by Wolfi, aims to revive the traditional handicraft that has been in decline since the war began in Syria in 2011.

Hamwi print, based on wooden blocks and ink made of natural ingredients, is an old craft that was used by people with modest means to design their table covers, bed sheets and curtains with colors.

"Our initiative puts the handicrafts in the recovery room until the situation we are living in ends. Until the markets return, the economy recovers, the tourism returns to the country so that people return to living their lives normally. Nowadays our production and marketing are not held under normal conditions, nothing. We are just trying to keep breathing and survive," said exhibition organizer Soad Jarrous.

Hassan Hawa, owner of the last Syrian Hamwi print atelier, is trying to bring it back by producing prints on scarves, t-shirts, handbags and more.

"Wolfi (My Friend) project was excellent for me. It activated the work and created a small external production line and a production line for the elite who did not know about this handcraft. They got to know it and loved it," Hawa said.

"I love this profession and can not live without it, I can't. Sometimes when I do not have orders I print on bags and small pieces just to keep it alive," he added.

Demand for the craft has severely declined due to dwindling tourism and threats of the Gaza war escalating into a wider conflict.