Mosaic has been used for centuries as a form of decoration and art. It has also been used as an illustrative tool to document ideas and messages reflecting cultures, and therefore is an early tool of historical documentation. Mosaics in Palestine date back to ancient times and new discoveries are still being made to this very day.
Rusayla is a hardworking and visionary woman who runs the Nu’eimeh Womens’ Mosaic Workshop from her home. Women gather there to work on orders for both local and international markets. She explains how mosaic is making a comeback in the Palestinian market, with many clients looking for handmade and customized designs to decorate their homes and gardens. Additional products of the women’s co-op range from tapestries to tables, chairs, and much more.
Rusayla explains that this traditional craft is environmentally friendly as the main materials used are local stone cuttings, which are usually acquired from stone quarries. Basically, it is the waste of stone cutting workshops and quarries, which these women take and use to produce their beautiful pieces. Some chemical-based products are used to colour some of the tiles, depending on the design of the piece and the clients’ needs. However, the most beautiful mosaics, we concur, are the ones that have natural colours in them, with the famous ‘Tree of Life’ as an example.
The Cooperative is run entirely by women and is an income generating initiative that deserves respect and support. The women have a vision to continue producing for the local market and to encourage people to preserve and promote this enchanting aspect of Palestinian cultural heritage.
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Products Selling Points: At the cooperative.
Other Services: Hosting groups.