The V&A arts and community education initiative, 'Shamiana:
The Mughal Tent', united groups of Asian women and children,
as well as other communities, in the creation of a unique
collection of textile panels.
Working in groups, the participants learnt
textile skills both from each other as well as through the
V&A's collections. They gained confidence and a real sense
of ownership of their artwork.
From small beginnings the project became a
national and international initiative. The exhibition and
project came to be known as the tent that covers the
world with all 56 panels being displayed at the V&A
in 1997.
The Mughal Tent project was initiated and
developed by Shireen Akbar, Head of Adult & Community
Education at the V&A. Through her own example Shireen
encouraged South Asian women to improve their lives and
to reach for new opportunities. Sadly Shireen died in March
1997.
Supporting
Organisations
