Today we’d like to introduce you to Adel Hemyari.
Hi Adel, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In 2021, I began working in a Persian rug store and developed a deep appreciation for this enduring art form. Learning about nomadic weaving revealed the skill, time, and tradition behind every rug—each one shaped by generations of craftsmanship, distinctive motifs, and beautifully imperfect character.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not always been a smooth road since I began immersing myself in a craft that was new to me and involved a continuous learning process.
There are so many levels to handmade rugs. All it takes is a conversation with an expert of decades to humble you and remind you of the opportunity to further your education in this ancient practice.
I would say I am at an intermediate level overall with passion and excitement to expand my knowledge of handwoven rugs on my days ahead!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have come to realize that the art of rug weaving has become an endangered species in an age where they are exploited for their intricate characteristics and packaged up in an industry that profits off of their uniqueness and originality.
Persian rugs began with nomadic tribes in ancient Persia thousands of years back with very few possessions, moving in nature while weaving as they navigated new territories.
The rug was part of their story they got to tell of their journey. It often utilized natural symbolism like animals and trees, but often the weaver found a way to add their own personality, color and design usage, and creativity to present their story. This nomadic culture still exists to this very day. I hope the weavers can continue to share their stories with us through their creative weaving.
I just want to preserve this important artform, so I am proud of how I have offered my presence in this field up until this point by sharing my knowledge with many others about this art and how dedicated someone is to weave a rug all the way through.
I am glad to introduce the art of the Persian rug and remind people that these rugs add so much life to a space and should not be replaced with a plastic printed floor covering just because it’s a cheaper alternative. Rugs can lost a hundred years or more. Their durability and beauty speak for themselves. #respecttherug
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
They are probably surprised I have found so much passion in an art that deserves to be honored and preserved. The symbols on the rugs tell a story. The choice of colors tell a story. Their ability to enhance a space by their mere presence tells a story. I want them to be both revered and better understood.
People spend several years weaving a single rug and I don’t that want their efforts and the love they put into weaving them to be taken for granted. I want them to be appreciated and celebrated as it’s a privilege to have them. Imagine spending years of your life weaving a rug that you will never see again that has traveled across the world and sits in a random living room. You would hope it’s appreciated and loved.
My family is originally of Persian descent, so this art means even more to me as it allows me to better connect with my native heritage and culture. Each town and city have their own original styles of design and weaving, and it is fascinating once you dive deeper into this primitive artform.
I have also had the great privilege of working with several great interior designers in East Nashville, Brentwood, and beyond. The great designers know that the rug is the foundation of the room and often begin there before arranging the remainder of the room!
#respecttherug
Contact Info:
- Website: https://persianave.com
- Instagram: @persian.ave
