Tuesday September 24th, 2024
Copied

Scopa is the Egyptian Brand Turning Wooden Clutches Into Wearable Art

This mother-daughter duo is sharing their art with the world through Scopa, their artisanal celebration of culture.

Ziyad El-Helbawy

A heartfelt homage to its place of origin, Scopa is a vibrant ode to the rich cultures of Egypt and Africa, celebrating their heritage and the artistic essence that pervades every nook and cranny of their timeless architecture. Using wooden canvases and an array of vibrant colours, Scopa creates distinctive wooden clutches adorned with hand-painted motifs that echo the vivacious spirit found in our streets.

Catering to the unique tastes of Cairenes and beyond, Scopa's wooden bags are statement pieces that transcend their functional purpose. "I wanted to preserve our cultural identity and share it with the world," Dina Baheir, founder of Scopa, tells Scene Styled. "Our heritage shapes us, and I wanted to embrace that.”

From the sleek, softly curved edges of the round clutch to the bold angular designs, Scopa's bags are adorned with intricate patterns that are instantly recognizable. The signature Cleopatra bag showcases elements of Ancient Egyptian civilization, while the beautifully illustrated Jamila reflects the vibrant street art adorning the pathways of Nubian villages in Upper Egypt.

The story behind Scopa is one of personal and emotional significance, uniting a mother and daughter in a venture that bridges the generational divide. "Scopa was inspired by my relationship with my mother; she is an artist, and I grew up watching her paint and experiment with different materials—wood, fabrics, and pretty much anything within her reach. It nurtured in me a love for the arts, and I knew I wanted to pursue that someday, somehow," Baheir adds.

Drawing upon her business education, Baheir merged her academic background with her passion for the arts to establish Scopa alongside her mother, whom she considers her best friend, partner, and, above all, her inspiration.

Emphasising sustainability, Scopa's products are meticulously crafted and painted by hand, reflecting a deep care for the environment while showcasing cultural diversity and local talent in craftsmanship.