Presented by TDIC under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, A Story of Islamic Embroidery in Nomadic & Urban Traditions presents more than 200 rare and majestic textiles, including a wealth of embroideries from Central Asia never before exhibited in the region, that permit visitors to explore the exchange of trade and culture across the Silk Road and beyond.

These works, with their kaleidoscope of motifs and colours, create a form of abstract art that testify to the role of Islamic women in creating an artistic tradition of great significance and beauty. The works include embroidered garments and decorative objects dating from the 17th to the 20th century that illuminate how the magnificent tradition of embroidery, carried on by urban, rural and nomadic women, sustained regional, tribal and family identities through its integration in communal activities, and how it evolved through the encounter of different cultures.

The exhibition originally ran from 6th April until the 18th July 2010. However, due to its overwhelming success the exhibit was extended until the 28th September, in which time it continued to be well visited throughout the hot season. Due to high interest and awareness, a world tour of this extraordinary collection is currently being organised and we have been retained by the Amber Foundation as the design consultant to oversee the tour in each venue.