Join us for a journey through Yemen’s architectural wonders: from the Queen of Sheba’s temple to the walls of the Old City of Sana’a, the mudbrick ‘Manhattan’ of Shibam to the cliff-hewn palace of Dar al-Hajar, and beyond. Art & the Architectural Imaginary is a component of the Senses of Yemen project by Mabrouklyn, showcasing representations of Yemeni architecture through various forms: fashion, textiles, models, film, and photography.
Beloved by Pasolini and the site of several of his films, Yemen’s ancient architectural traditions are both enduring and endangered, serving as a source of national pride and international fascination. In a time when Yemen's tangible heritage is under threat, experience a window to the beauty of its architectural heritage and its resilience, permeating multimedially through the collective and artistic imaginary.
Over the month of June, expect a range of engaging parallel events such as workshops, talks and film screenings. Stay tuned for more details.
Senses of Yemen is a long-term project by Mabrouklyn to document, preserve, and raise awareness of Yemen’s material culture. Currently representing two collections of Yemeni artefacts, the Senses of Yemen project involves creating a digital archive, curating multiple exhibitions, and developing educational resources to promote active, continued engagement with Yemeni material culture. The photographs representing a wide range of architecture were taken by London-based authors, collectors and enthusiasts and lived in boxes and albums for decades and Mabrouklyn is proud to help restore and make these available to the general public.
By showcasing Yemen’s cultural heritage, we aim to foster greater awareness, understanding and inclusiveness among the UK public, and provide an avenue for UK Yemeni communities – particularly those outside of London – to (re)connect with their own material heritage.
