Facets in Resonance by Kamilah Ahmed
A monumental installation celebrating the importance of craft.
Facets in Resonance by Kamilah Ahmed is a new site-specific commission, presented as part of the current exhibition, The Arab Hall: Past and Present.
A monumental mixed-media textile arch situated in the iconic Arab Hall at Leighton House, the installation draws on Bangladeshi textile traditions, such as Jamdani weaving, where embroidery floats across a warp. Kamilah combines these influences with large-scale hand-wrapped silk warp structures, supported by an undulating, hand-bent brass frame.
In referencing the Arab Hall's aesthetic, panels of hundreds of laser-cut leather elements mirror some of the motives seen in the surrounding tile panels and frame peacock eyes, creating a delicate three-dimensional effect.
'In the Arab Hall it is easy to feel removed from the people who made all the different elements. 'Facets in Resonance' is about encouraging visitors to engage more deeply with the space and feel connected to craft'
Meet Kamilah Ahmed
Kamilah Ahmed is a London-based British Bangladeshi embroidery artist and designer whose practice explores the shifting language of pattern across South and Southeast Asia, tracing cultural movement and trade through thread.
With a formative background in couture embroidery, Ahmed has worked for leading fashion houses including Dior, Valentino, Alexander McQueen, and Dolce & Gabbana (2013–2023). She later led New Embroidery Design and Development at de Gournay (2023–2024), translating couture techniques into large-scale interior and architectural applications.
Her recent work includes The Rhythm of Pride, a silk tapestry co-commissioned by the British Council and the British High Commission Bangladesh (2021); collaborative works for Spinocchia Freund’s The Curator’s Room at WOW!house (2025); exhibiting A Continual at Homo Faber’s Interwoven in Seville (2025); being named the inaugural recipient of the Collect Open Award at Somerset House (2026); and a finalist in the House & Garden Craft Prize showcased at Sotheby's (2026).
Plan your Visit
Facets in Resonance by Kamilah Ahmed
From 15 May to 30 July, on display in the Arab Hall at Leighton House
As part of the exhibition The Arab Hall: Past and Present (21 March - 4 October)
Included with admission ticket
Kamilah Ahmed and Facets in Resonance. Image Jaron James.