Before the 20th century there was little commercial demand for Berber textiles outside of Morocco, and they were mostly made by women for domestic use, as bedding or blankets. Variations in style across different ethnic groups can often be attributed to practical concerns such as the climate. In the Middle Atlas, for example, a mountainous region with extreme conditions, weavers tend towards the warmth of high pile carpets. In more clement areas, one finds a fine weave and low pile. Generally, the designs are striking and simple, with patterns or symbols floating on a white or cream ground.
This selection, which includes rugs, a woman’s ceremonial headscarf, and a saddle cover, was compiled by Gebhart Blazek, with whom the Gallery has previously collaborated.
The Douglas Hyde is delighted to present the first institutional exhibition in Ireland by renowned artist Uri Aran. Titled Take This Dog for Example, Aran’s exhibition presents new and ongoing works layered throughout the space of Gallery 1. Uri Aran has a decidedly unfixed relationship to media and materials, combining aspects of sculpture, video, painting, […]
Acknowledging the crucial role artists play in influencing and shaping other artistic practices, ‘The Artist’s Eye’ series asks those exhibiting in Gallery 1 to invite an artist of influence to present work in Gallery 2. In this instalment, Uri Aran has invited longtime friend and collaborator Josh Tonsfeldt. Josh Tonsfeldt’s practice is rooted in everyday life and […]
Artists present us with new perspectives on the world we live in. Explore the exciting ideas behind our programmes, hear more from the artists we work with and discover new ways of engaging with art.
