Exhibition: Mina Abouzahra

Starting in September, Museum Gouda will host a solo exhibition by Mina Abouzahra (1977). Her designs bring together the colorful worlds of Moroccan craftsmanship and Dutch design.

Born in the Netherlands to Moroccan parents, Mina grew up in two worlds, an experience that has shaped her work and remains a constant source of inspiration. While studying at the Hout- en Meubileringscollege, she spent some time working in Morocco, where she discovered a world of crafts, colors, and traditions that would stay with her forever.

Handmade Rugs
Since 2013, Mina has run a design studio with locations in both Amsterdam and Morocco. In Taznakht, she collaborates with a women’s weaving cooperative. The female artisans produce the most beautiful handmade rugs, while ensuring good working conditions and that the weavers receive fair wages.

The furniture and rugs in the presentation showcase Mina’s approach to interior and product design: a fusion of cultures, raw materials, dynamic colors, and the modern with the traditional. She celebrates cultural heritage and empowers female artisans and their communities through fair business practices. A unique signature that embodies everything Mina loves.

Wonder Walls
Alongside this solo exhibition, the museum is also hosting the “Wonder Walls” exhibition, which explores Gouda’s historic weaving industry. On display are cushions woven in Taznakht—contemporary variations on historic guild cushions that Mina designs in collaboration with today’s communities.