An exhibition of embroidery, story and survival
Last week Corban and Blair had the immense honour of hosting Hoori Handmades’ An Exhibition of Embroidery, Story and Survival, where our Lewisham store transformed into two nights of storytelling and connection. On display were various embroidered handkerchiefs, bags, pillow cases, and beaded jewellery, all meticulously handcrafted by a collective 75 women living in Afghanistan as the sole breadwinners for their families.
Thanks to all those who visited and supported with a purchase, thousands of dollars raised will go towards supporting these women in creating income, preserving tradition and their craft, and building independence for themselves and their families.
Mursal Azizi
For artist, founder and director Mursal Azizi, the journey in creating Hoori Handmade spans a lifetime, from growing up under the Taliban regime, leaving Afghanistan in 2021, and arriving in Australia in 2023. Azizi felt driven to share the stories of Afghan women through their craftsmanship. In 2024, she began building a network of women and collecting their art in order to bring it to a larger audience. Hoori Handmade was officially established in 2025 with the intention to help these women overcome poverty, support their families, and feel valued for their creativity and skills.
This is what Mursal had to say about last weeks exhibition:
“It was an honour to share these stories within our space – to see people pause, lean in, and truly connect with the work and its meaning.”
Our Contribution
Working alongside Mursal, Corban and Blair had the privilege of framing selected works in our carbon neutral frames to honour and uplift both the craftsmanship of the embroideries and the stories they carry.
The Story Continues…
While the exhibition is now closed, the story is far from over. A selection of embroidered artworks remain on display at the Corban and Blair window display, and the full collection is available online at the Hoori Handmade website. Each piece represents not just craftsmanship, but cultural heritage, resilience, hope, and a direct source of income and independence for these women.
What’s Next?
Interested in collaborating with us? We’d love to help with your next project.
If your focus is Australian-Made, locally designed products, with meaningful, elevated storytelling, get in touch.
