Motif for Motive was a project carried out in 2023 in Berlin, facilitated by Nagham Hammoush and Forough Absalan. The project combined their expertise to create a series of creative workshops that focused on printing various cultural and linguistic motifs onto fabrics such as bags, T-shirts, and recycled clothing, giving them new meaning and significance.

The project aimed to provide children, teenagers, and young women-particularly those from migrant backgrounds-with a creative space for self-expression. Many of these participants, who spoke languages such as Arabic, Kurdish, Persian, and Ukrainian, often face challenges in communication and expressing their identities. Through artistic activities, they were able to connect, communicate, and explore their cultural heritage in an inclusive and inspiring environment.

The workshops combined different techniques, colors, and themes inspired by historical figures, cultural symbols, poetry, and personal reflections. The goal was to empower participants, fostering confidence and a sense of belonging while promoting sustainability through upcycling old clothing.

Proiect Partners and Locations

The project collaborated with several organizations to reach different communities in

Berlin:

• Spielmobil: Organized three two-day workshops (6 hours per day) in refugee shelters in the Lichtenberg district.

• Alsaieda e.V.: Held two workshops for women and children at Ulme35, a cultural and community space in western Berlin.

• Salam e.V.: Conducted a workshop for young people and families at the Salam

• Center in Gesundbrunnen.

Long-Term Vision and Sustainability

Motif for Motive was designed as a long-term initiative, aiming to expand its network and collaborate with various institutions beyond Berlin. By promoting artistic expression and cultural identity, the project sought to create lasting positive impacts within migrant communities. Additionally, it emphasized environmental sustainability by recycling clothing and using eco-friendly colors.

The project was funded by Berliner

Projektfonds Kulturelle Bildung.