A BAHRAINI basket weaver is now thriving in his new unit following months of uncertainty after eviction from his kiosk near Bahrain Fort.
Thirty-year-old Hassan Al Shajjar has found a new space to continue his craftwork within a heritage village currently being created amidst the remains of old properties.
Housing units built in Bahrain Fort Village in the 1960s are now being revamped while retaining their authentic traditional features by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca).
“My sudden eviction has initially left me uncertain about the future of my profession, but Baca changed my fortunes by giving me one of the abandoned homes in the fort’s village,” said Mr Al Shajjar, who is a father-of-four.
“The basket-weaving unit is up-and-running and I only go back to my residence to sleep at night,” he added. “I am so happy, that I have brought along my three brothers and even my eldest son helps out after school.
“It shows that I am extremely happy. I want the profession I learnt from my father and grandfather to continue and this gesture didn’t just revive my fortunes but my beloved profession too.”
He now proudly acts as a ‘local handicrafts ambassador’ and recently showcased his work in Riyadh.
“I will take my unique profession anywhere and everywhere if it ensures its survival,” said Mr Al Shajjar.
The heritage village not only provides a suitable space for Mr Al Shajjar to work in but also attracts tourists, students and locals interested in Bahraini culture.
He now demonstrates weaving techniques to visitors, explaining the history behind the patterns and materials used in each piece.
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