Salha Al-Otaibi or Um Issam, as she prefers to be called, is a woman with a vision. Forty-five years ago with the help of her husband she started collecting traditional objects and clothes.
That was the foundation of the business she launched 25 years ago. The project was multipurpose — but the main aim was to use the past to educate the present and preserve for the future. Through her efforts she hopes to save and preserve traditions and start a business that bridges the gap between the past and the present. Her third goal is to help low-income women by giving them courses in making handmade stuff to help them start their own businesses.
Um Issam, who recently set up shop at Bait Nasif Museum in downtown Al-Balad district for her traditional goods and new creations, said that the traditional wares had only needed to be cleaned.
The shop, Halima Al-Sadia Center, has two sections — one for rare objects and clothes and the other for new creations that are developed on traditional lines to suit current tastes. Explaining why she picked the name Halima Al-Sadia, she said, “I come from the Bani Sa’adia tribe that lives not far from Taif. Halima Al-Sa’adia, who nursed the Prophet (pbuh), also hails from this clan. When I used to dress up in traditional clothes and go to bazaars people would always compliment me and I would highlight the traditions of the Kingdom and that of my tribe.”
“There is nothing that we cannot achieve by trying. I design clothes, accessories and small bags for mobile phones. I also make candleholders, small carpets and furniture. All my works are inspired from the past.”
She inherited from her mother and grandmother handmade crafts of different handmade materials including stuff that were used in wedding ceremonies.
“I used to watch my mother working from the time I was 8 years old. I have a sharp memory and I still remember how she did everything.”
Um Issam, who speaks with a Bedouin accent, did not find moving around to collect different valuables from villages and rural areas an obstacle. “I would buy the old stuff from the people there who trusted me since they know I would not sell out such valuables.”
“Our tradition is rich. In the past we used to make everything by our hands and from what is around us. We did not import anything. Clothes, food, decorations, furniture and cooking tools, were all made locally,” said Um Issam.
Um Issam hopes to turn her center into a perfect place for traditional creations, adding, to realize this she needs courage and support from family, officials and visitors. “Though I am losing money and my children and husband are supportive, continuing our tradition is worth it.”
People from the southern region, Taif and Jeddah generally rent clothes, accessories and furniture from her for wedding ceremonies, she said.
“Delegations from Jordon, Syria, UAE, Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco have asked me to visit and give courses in their countries. My aim however is to preserve our tradition and not to trade in it,” said Um Issam, adding, “My efforts remain limited and the collections would increase and expand with the help of specialists and concerned officials who have an interest in this field. With cooperation we would be able to do much to sustain our tradition.”
Her project she said has helped low-income women. With the help of the municipality, she has helped them learn and establish a trade. “I conduct courses and the municipality provides all the materials we need. This helps them to be initiative and independent.”
Apart from the low-income people, Um Issam has also helped those who suffer from psychological problems and depression. “I showed them how to make simple and fancy handmade materials and this has helped them. And I benefit from their prayers for me.”
