Watch The Tentmakers of Cairo

The Tentmakers of Cairo, released in 2015, is a fascinating documentary that lets us explore the lives of the last remaining tentmakers in Egypt's historic capital. These artisans, known for their exquisite craft of hand-sewing vibrant and intricate designs into cotton fabric, have been struggling to maintain their livelihood since the Arab Spring in 2011.

Directed by Kim Beamish, the film takes us on a journey through the alleyways of Cairo as we uncover the stories of four tentmakers who have been trying to preserve their ancient art form for generations. We are introduced to Tarek Abdel Hay, a veteran artisan who has been sewing for over forty years and is now struggling to make ends meet. Hosam Hanafy El Farouk, a young and ambitious tentmaker, is on the verge of starting his own business, but the lack of resources makes it difficult for him to pursue his dreams. We also meet two other tentmakers, Ashraf and Naguib, who have been selling their wares on the streets of Cairo for decades.

The documentary gives us a glimpse into the daily lives of these artisans, who work in small workshops just off Cairo's bustling streets. We see how the tentmakers sketch designs on scratch paper, carefully stitch fabrics using a technique passed down from their ancestors, and meticulously iron each piece. We are even witness to the challenges they face as they try to sell their products to passing tourists, haggling over prices and facing competition from mass-produced, machine-made textiles.

What makes this film truly special is the way it juxtaposes the tentmakers' traditional, centuries-old art form with the rapidly evolving modern world around them. The documentary delves deep into the economic and political turmoil that has rocked Egypt in recent years, affecting the livelihoods of thousands of small business owners like the tentmakers. We learn about the challenges they face, such as the rising cost of materials and an influx of subsidized imports from Syria and China, which put them at a disadvantage.

Beamish's film is a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage in an age of globalization. We see how the tentmakers' art is not just about stitching fabrics; it is a testament to their resilience and determination to keep an ancient art form alive. Despite the odds stacked against them, the tentmakers continue to create beautiful, intricate textiles that embody the spirit of Egypt's rich artistic and cultural traditions.

The Tentmakers of Cairo captures the essence of the tentmakers' struggle with incredible sensitivity and depth. It is a film that will make you laugh, cry and leave you in awe of the incredible craftsmanship and creativity of Egypt's last remaining tentmakers. Through their stories, we are reminded of the power of art to transcend borders, and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations to come.

In conclusion, The Tentmakers of Cairo is a must-watch for anyone interested in art, culture and society. It is a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, and a powerful reminder of the beauty and richness of Egypt's cultural traditions. The film highlights the significance of small-scale traditional craftsmanship in an increasingly homogenized world, and urges us to embrace diversity and honor our heritage as we move forward into the 21st century.

The Tentmakers of Cairo is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.