QANANI

QANANI

2015
weaving for empowerment
qanani set photo

In 2015, amidst the Syrian war, millions found themselves displaced, with nearly 4 million seeking refuge in neighbouring countries, often facing daunting conditions and constrained opportunities of refugee camps.


The QANANI project emerged as a response; created specifically for Syrian women in Lebanese refugee camps, it aimed to empower them culturally, emotionally, and economically.


Full Screen Photo
Gallery
Zdjęcie pracy
Central to the project was the development of the QANANI weaving technique. By providing a platform for crafting simple objects from available materials like PET bottles within the camps, the project aimed to offer these women a means of generating income and reclaiming their self-esteem. QANANI’s framework provided guidance for artisans to produce objects while retaining their creativity - the technique allowed them to imbue each piece with their unique flair, whether through color patterns or innovative designs.
Zdjęcie pracy
Unlike conventional aid efforts, QANANI embraced simplicity and sustainability. By utilizing materials already present in the camps and employing basic crafting techniques, the project enabled artisans to transform plastic waste into functional and aesthetically pleasing items.
Zdjęcie pracy
Beyond immediate economic benefits, the project aimed to instill a sense of hope for the future. By equipping women with skills they could carry forward, QANANI envisioned a pathway toward self-sufficiency and a brighter tomorrow.
The outcome was a collection of everyday objects blending traditional weaving techniques with innovative upcycling technology. Through this fusion, QANANI sought to honor the rich craft heritage of Syria while addressing the pressing needs of the present.

Object #1: Spintop

The inclusion of the spintop in this set is no accident—it's a timeless toy cherished across the globe. Its simplicity is its charm, stripping play down to its purest form: imagination. With just a flick, it invites endless possibilities, reminding us that sometimes, all we need is a little creativity to find joy.


Object #2: Basket

In every home, there are treasures we hold dear. That's where storage boxes, baskets, and containers come in—they're the silent guardians of our memories and belongings. Whether it's a precious trinket, a set of keys, or a heartfelt note, these vessels keep our keepsakes safe, close, and organized.


Object #3: Lampshade

At the heart of every gathering lies a source of light, and the lamp fulfills this fundamental role. Casting its glow, it doesn't just illuminate a space; it infuses it with warmth and comfort, turning a mere house into a sanctuary we call home.

speculative storytelling through objects
anna banout