UniqueART: Carpet Art

Did you know that carpets are also works of art that captivate many people in museums and exhibitions? Traditionally, carpet art is associated with Oriental carpets, but an increasing number of modern carpet styles are also captivating visual artists around the world. 

Hand-knotted and woven rugs are finding their way not only into major art hubs but also into regional studios and art lofts. For example, there are creative artists like the Azerbaijani artist Feig Ahmed from Baku, who is known for his extraordinary rug artworks. Rug art is no longer limited to serving as mere wall hangings. Carpet art is also popular in the form of sculptures, wall panels, and standalone installations. 

Modern and traditional rugs are not only suitable as floor decorations but also as unique wall decorations. The technical term “tapestry” encompasses wall hangings and all other types of textiles that can be hung on walls for decorative purposes. Tapestries are currently experiencing a real boom and have fans all around the globe. And rightly so, as woven and knotted tapestries create a special visual impact and a unique atmosphere.

On the last weekend of July each year, art lovers gather in Båstad, Sweden, to celebrate Märta Maas-Fjetterström Day, which honors the works of the renowned Swedish textile artist (1873–1941). Woven with the utmost craftsmanship, her tapestry masterpieces fetch top prices at international auctions. Some pieces by Märta Maas Fjetterström are part of the Swedish Royal Collection, while others are on display in renowned museums such as the National Museum in Stockholm or the Louvre in Paris. 

(Source: Architektur & Wohnen magazine)

Carpet artworks have also been exhibited on several occasions at documenta in Kassel. In 2012, for example, the exhibition featured works by the Norwegian artist Hannah Ryggen (1894–1970), who successfully used large-scale carpets to make political statements, garnering international attention. Political activism packaged as art is a unique form of self-expression. In addition to documenta, the Schirn in Frankfurt also dedicated an extensive retrospective to Ryggen’s political tapestries. 

It almost seems as if rugs are everywhere these days. Whether used as wall hangings or floor coverings, rugs are an art form in their own right. With their striking colors, shapes, and materials, rugs are not only elegant but also truly unique eye-catchers. Let yourself be inspired by the modern rug masterpieces in our shop, no matter where you choose to display them in your home. They’re certainly one-of-a-kind.