ISHKAR

Put simply, ISHKAR exists to change the way we think about countries at war. Founded in 2016 by Edmund le Brun and Flore de Taisne who met while  both were working in Afghanistan, the organisation began by sourcing and selling craft products and textiles made by artisans in conflict zones, championing their talent while also giving them access to an international market they would otherwise be denied. ISHKAR swiftly won a reputation for the beauty and quality of the products it curated – from delicate camel hair shawls woven in Syria to beautiful jewellery made by goldsmiths in Kabul. 

In recent years, Edmund and Flore have expanded ISHKAR’s remit and ambition to incorporate a platform for editorial, photography, film and events designed to explore the often-overlooked culture and art of communities afflicted by unrest. Introduced in 2019, ISHKAR’s travel service arranges specialist-led small-group adventures in the regions of the world that typical travel companies avoid. (To give you a flavour: upcoming expeditions include exploring Pakistan with a National Geographic photographer and skiing in Afghanistan’s Koh-e Baba mountains.)

We’ve been fans of ISHKAR and its amazing work since the beginning, so we’re predictably excited to have the opportunity to help the team with their mission to change perceptions, preserve traditional craft practices and create opportunities for talented artisans. 

ishkar.com