In a seven-day thobe exhibition in El Fasher, North Darfur, a local designer displays her work, which is influenced by both traditional and contemporary Sudanese fashion.

By Ala Mayyahi

To display more than 50 Sudanese thobes made of fine fabrics and designed in both contemporary and traditional styles, Dr. Salwa Mukhtar Saleh, a Darfuri fashion designer, held an exhibition in early May in the Cultural Centre in El Fasher, North Darfur. During the seven days of the exhibition, the show’s visitors were able to view a variety of new and old styles, all designed by Dr. Saleh.

In addition to being a designer, Dr. Saleh is an academic holding a Masters in educational media and a Doctorate in educational development. She has lectured at El Fasher University since 1995, and is a high-profile woman in her hometown, El Fasher, maintaining ties with her family and community.

In an interview, Voices of Darfur spoke with Dr. Saleh about her exhibition, the second such show she has put on, and about the cultural and social factors that have contributed to the modern-day Sudanese thobe.

VoD: Can you tell us about your start in designing thobes and how you learned to paint on fabric?

Salwa: It goes back to my early age, as I grew up in a family that always appreciated art. Since my childhood, I’ve been used to seeing female family members making nice arrangements and colouring, which gave me a keen sense for art.

As for learning, it was by natural talent first, as well as the desire to improve my art skills. Then my academic education helped me greatly refine my skills.  I studied industrial design at the University of Sudan for Science and Technology. There I learned colouring principles and engineering drawing. I also took courses in human anatomy in the Medicine College, carpentry and blacksmithing in the Engineering College, and packaging in the College of Commerce.

All these subjects are art-related and contributed significantly to mastering the skills needed for working on different materials, including fabrics and clothing.

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Read the full interview in the July 2012 issue of Voices of Darfur. Download the magazine (PDF) here.

Designer Dr. Salwa Mukhtar Saleh using a wooden ring, called a tara, to hold fabric tightly as she paints it. The paints Dr. Saleh uses are specially made for cloth. Photo by Albert González Farran, UNAMID.