The MAS collection is as diverse as Antwerp itself. It brings together heritage from all over the world. Different presentations give a voice to the communities behind this heritage. This way, the MAS shows what is happening in society today.
The rear room of the Visible Storage now focuses on Palestinian embroidery, 'tatreez', a tradition that connects generations of women. The Palestinian-Israeli conflict escalated into genocide against the Palestinian people. This violence affects not only people, but also their cultural traditions and heritage.
Palestinian women embroider colorful motifs onto a thobe, a traditional long robe. The patterns tell the life story of the person wearing the garment. The tradition is passed down from generation to generation. Displacement, cultural exchanges, and historical events have influenced the patterns and given rise to new forms.
Today, the Palestinian diaspora keeps this tradition alive all over the world. Embroidering together thus becomes an act of cultural solidarity. ‘Tatreez’ now symbolizes the resilience of culture under pressure.
