Threads of a Desert Wind

​

Craft Documentation 2001, Sultanate of Oman



Craft documentation of three traditional textile crafts of The Sultanate of Oman. The three crafts communities belong to three different geographical landscapes of Oman - the sea, the mountains and the desert.



The book gives an introduction to the culture and lifestyles in these regions and how these have influenced the crafts. Each craft is documented in detail with information regarding materials used, tools, patterns and uses. An insight into the changes to the crafts and its future due to the modernisation of Oman is also given.  The close encounters with the crafts men give a vivid picture of the crafts and lives of the artisans and their respective communities. 



I am very keen to return to these regions to document the further changes over the last 11 years and update this book. I am also seeking support for publishing this craft documentation book as these skills and communities are fast dying and only seen in museums and cultural festivals. There is a need for the local knowledge and skills to be documented and shared as well as a need to revive these craft practices in the region.