AmericasMart-Atlanta and Afghanistan Embassy Bring
Atlanta, GA, November 29, 2006--Afghan Impressions: Area Rug Artistry & Inspiration-a celebration of Afghanistan's resurgent rug heritage and culture- will make its exclusive U.S. debut at AmericasMart-Atlanta and the January 2007 Atlanta International Area Rug Market featuring the National Oriental Rug Show.
This exhibition is the result of a landmark partnership between AmericasMart-Atlanta and the Embassy of Afghanistan, with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce.
In a custom-designed gallery setting in the 2nd floor Exhibit Hall of AmericasMart, Afghan Impressions: Area Rug Artistry & Inspiration will present some of Afghanistan's most spectacular export treasures, including traditional rugs, furniture reproductions and artifacts, many on loan from the private collection of Fredrik T. Hiebert Ph.D., renowned archaeologist and National Geographic Society Fellow. Traditional and modernized Afghan apparel will also be on display.
"For years, Afghanistan stood as one of the world's leading producers of handmade rugs," says Chas Sydney, senior vice president of floor coverings and new business development, AMC, Inc., parent of AmericasMart-Atlanta. "And today these rugs represent the prospect of hope and stability for a country on the brink of reintegration into the global economy. We're honored to bring this once-in-a-lifetime exhibit to Atlanta for the benefit of our customers and the Afghan people."
The exhibition opens at 4 p.m. on Thursday, January 18 in the 2nd floor Exhibit Hall of AmericasMart. A gala reception follows at 5 p.m. in which U.S. and Afghan dignitaries are expected to be in attendance. Among those expected to take part in the reception are U.S. Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez, Dr. Fredrik T. Hiebert, Sayed Mustafa Kasemi, Afghanistan's Minister of Culture, and representatives from the Export Promotion Center of Afghanistan. The cocktail buffet menu will feature traditional Middle Eastern pastries and teas.
Area Rug Artistry & Inspiration is open to all Market retailer and exhibitor customers from Thursday, January 18 through Sunday, January 21. 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Additionally, three Area Rug Center exhibitors will be showcasing their spectacular Afghan collections in January 2007: Amadi Carpets (5G5), Pacific Collection (4A2) and Ariana Rugs (2-1114).
