Kickoff Ceremony for Al-Mudhif

Join us as we kick off the construction of our next art installation, Al-Mudhif, with a dedication ceremony and a day building together in community. American veterans, Iraqi refugees, and the public will join environmental artist Sarah Kavage and Iraqi designer Yaroub Al-Obaidi in constructing an Iraqi guest house, called a mudhif, traditionally made with reed grasses called phragmites.

The building process involves tying bundles of reeds into 20-foot-long columns, and then shaping them into huge parabolic arches. Hand-woven mats are then tied over and between the columns, forming a roof. Finally, crafted lattice panels are attached to the sides, allowing for both sunlight and airflow into the interior and enclosing the entire hut.

Mudhifs are used for town gatherings and ceremonies; we will have extended programming around Al-Mudhif from June to October 2021, with storytelling; an exchange of war experiences; and healing and recovery among veterans, Iraqi immigrant communities, and the public.