Tatreez is the Arabic word for embroidery, which for generations has been a powerful visual language among Palestinian women. Before the catastrophic displacement of 1948, regional embroidery styles, motifs and colour palettes varied from one locality to another, reflecting the richness and diversity of Palestinian creative expression. The exquisite needlework embellishing costumes, often accompanied by lavish headdresses and accessories, signified social status and marked life events among all communities. Tatreez: Reclaiming Palestine through Embroidery revives this endangered cultural heritage, honouring Palestinian resilience while safeguarding a treasured tradition of Palestine.

The exhibition is divided into two galleries. For Special Gallery 1, traditional motifs and regional styles are reinterpreted with contemporary sensibilities yet remain firmly rooted in identity and belonging. Through these efforts, threads of the past are woven into the present, sustaining cultural continuity across borders. Colours and motifs in Palestinian embroidery often reflected social status, beliefs, taboos and ceremonial traditions shaped by the lives of women. From everyday garments to dresses for special occasions, these designs could communicate aspects of a woman’s identity without words.

For Special Gallery 2, regional embroidery styles, motifs and colour palettes varied from one locality to another, reflecting the richness and diversity of Palestinian creative expression. The gallery is divided into ten regions: Galilee, Nablus, Ramallah, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Hebron, Jaffa, Ramlah-Lydda, Gaza and Naqab. Each region features its own unique style of embroidery as well as colours and different types of textiles.

The exhibition is accompanied by a catalogue with the same title that will be available at our Museum Shop.

*In conjunction with the exhibition, MOZA Restaurant will offer a special dining experience showcasing the rich flavours and culinary heritage of Palestine.