#sacklergallery

SMITHSONIAN MUSEUM, WASHINGTON DC

From its critical position on the ancient Silk Road that stretches from Europe to China, Afghanistan absorbed traditions from India, Persia, and Central Asia and blended them into a distinct artistic culture. Decades of civil unrest that began in the 1970s nearly destroyed this vital heritage.  Many of Afghanistan’s artisans were forced to leave their country or give up their craft. The old city of Kabul, once a bustling center of craft and commerce, fell into ruin.

To tell the transformative story of culture and heritage in Murad Khani, Afghan woodworkers have created magnificent wood arcades, screens, and a pavilion, all carved by hand from Himalayan cedar. Wander among these arcades and explore spectacular contemporary carpets, jewelry, and calligraphy, all complemented by videos and large-scale photographs of the Afghan artisans who made them. Artisans from Murad Khani are bringing the exhibition to life by demonstrating their art, sharing their experiences, and allowing visitors to encounter Afghanistan’s art and culture firsthand. 

Turquoise Mountain: Artists Transforming Afghanistan is organized by the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and the Turquoise Mountain Trust. Open now through October 2017

This is one of my favourite buildings in London. The original stricture is a classical 19th century brick gunpowder store. The white curvy modern addition was designed by the late Zaha Hadid and built in 2013. 

I just love the contrast and synthesis of old and new. Not everybody was happy about it, the best critical quote I found was “looks like someone melted a giant iPod and threw it agains the side of the existing building”.  The new structure hosts an airy cafe. I ordered a relatively overpriced cappuccino and they let me take some quick shots of the interiors. In case you are a fan of architecture and happen to be in Hyde Park, I would definitely recommend a visit.