Afghan rug exhibition on tap for Atlanta
By Lissa Wyman -- Furniture Today, January 22, 2007
Atlanta — A special exhibition, Afghan Impressions: Area Rug Artistry & Inspiration, is on tap for the upcoming International Rug Market/National Oriental Rug Show at AmericasMart Atlanta, Jan. 18–21.
The exhibit, a celebration of Afghanistan's resurgent rug heritage and culture, is the result of a partnership between AmericasMart Atlanta and the Embassy of Afghanistan, with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Afghan Impressions, in a custom-designed gallery in the second floor exhibit hall of AmericasMart, will present some of Afghanistan's most spectacular export treasures. In addition to traditional rugs, the exhibit will spotlight furniture reproductions, artifacts, and traditional and modern Afghan apparel.
"For years, Afghanistan was one of the world's leading producers of hand-made rugs," said Chas Sydney, senior vice president of floor coverings and new business development for AmericasMart. "Today, these rugs represent the prospect of hope and stability for a country on the brink of reintegration into the global economy. We're honored to bring this once-in-a-lifetime exhibit to Atlanta."
The exhibition opens at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18, with a gala reception at 5 p.m., with U.S. and Afghan dignitaries expected to attend. The cocktail buffet will feature traditional Middle Eastern pastries and teas.
The exhibition will be open to all marketgoers through Sunday, Jan. 21, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Additionally, three rug market exhibitors will be showcasing their Afghan collections. They are Amadi Carpets (5G5), Pacific Collection (4A2) and Ariana Rugs (2-1114).
