FIELD MEETING TAKE 6: THINKING COLLECTIONS

Zolaykha Sherzad (Kabul & New York)

 

The Peace Coat

Pop-up Installation

Synopsis: Based in Kabul, the Zarif Design Center aims to preserve the traditional Afghan design by merging it with modern aesthetics to create fashion that is distinctive and timeless. Zarif currently employs and trains 52 local Afghan workers, and practices ‘slow’ production in the form of hand-crafted work and detailing. The use of natural dyes and traditional fabrics from Afghanistan and Central Asia along the traditional Silk Road foster fair-trade practices. Zarif provides a platform where traditional high-quality craftsmanship is a source of economic opportunity and personal fulfillment. At its core, Zarif acts as an ambassador sharing the rich cultural heritage of Afghanistan and its people with the rest of the world.
 
 
Watch video of Zolaykha’s Pop-up here
Watch all FIELD MEETING Pop-ups here
 

Zolaykha Sherzad is an Afghan artist, fashion designer, and founder of School of Hope (SoH) and Zarif Design. Herzad has participated in a number of international art shows including the Venice Biennale 2009 and dOCUMENTA 13 – 2012 in Kassel, Germany, where she represented her country with magnificent aerial silk sculptures. Sherzad is the recipient of The International Alliance for Women’s 2012 World of Difference Award.