Contemporary Design Meets Ancient Ruins in Carthage
Walking through the remnants of Carthage, a city founded by the Phoenicians in the ninth century B.C. near Tunis, Tunisia, you’ll come across a fascinating juxtaposition of modern design and ancient ruins.
A Vibrant Display of Artisanal Craftsmanship
Colorful wool kilims by American designer Chris Wolston and Tunisian artisans are delicately placed over old Roman columns. Nearby, you’ll find stylish furniture pieces made from palm wood by Lebanese designer Georges Mohasseb and Tunisian artisan Kais Gharbya.
Curated by Nicolas Bellvance-Lecompte for Lamia Bousnina Gallery, the exhibition “Carthagisme” celebrates Tunisia’s artistic heritage while embracing contemporary creative expression.
Championing Tunisian Design
Lamia Bousnina Ben Ayed, founder of the gallery, aims to highlight Tunisian craftsmanship and promote design objects made in Tunisia. The exhibition features specially commissioned pieces from six international designers, each paired with local Tunisian artisans.
Revitalizing Traditional Craft Practices
The exhibition serves as a manifesto celebrating Tunisian culture and creating new works of contemporary design that uphold traditional craftsmanship. The pieces, ranging from furniture to ceramics, aim to jumpstart a microeconomy in Tunisia.
From Stone Tables to Colorful Kilims
Designers like Elias and Yousef Anastas, Louis Barthelemy, Mary-Lynn Massoud, and Chris Wolston have created a diverse range of pieces that pay homage to Tunisian heritage while incorporating modern design elements.
Uniting Tradition and Innovation
The works displayed in “Carthagisme” beautifully blend ancient history with present-day stories, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Tunisia. From stone tables to vibrant tapestries, each piece tells a unique story of craftsmanship and creativity.