S6E4. Where Tatreez Meets Poetry with Giovanna

Send us Fan MailGIOVANNA (JO-VA-NA), A TATREEZ ARTIST, POET, AND STUDENT ACTIVIST (@giovanna_writes_poetry). She reflects on her grandparents’ displacement from Jerusalem and Yaffa in 1948 and her family’s movement through Lebanon, Jordan, and eventually the United States.Giovanna’s journey into tatreez began relatively recently through a workshop in Seattle with Hala and Sabrene (both previous guests on Tatreez Talk!), marking a powerful moment of reconnection with her culture. Despite not growing up surrounded by tatreez practices, she recalls owning a traditional thobe as a child, which served as an early—though distant—touchpoint to the craft.Throughout the conversation, Giovanna reflects on what it means to come to tatreez later in life, without prior exposure, and how that experience can feel both isolating and deeply meaningful. The discussion highlights themes of cultural rediscovery, intergenerational connection, and the role of art in identity and activism. Her story illustrates how tatreez can serve as a bridge between past and present, even for those who didn’t grow up immersed in the tradition.You’ll hear about:>> 00:41: Giovanna’s connection to Palestine>> 2:18: How Giovanna began her tatreez journey>> 5:18: Evolving tatreez practice and the Seattle tatreez community>> 11:01: Conversations through tatreez>> 12:53: Giovanna’s poetry>> 16:25: Creative process through Palestinian identity>> 19:27: Giovanna’s tatreez design approach>> 21:36: Tatreez projects in 2026>> 23:23: Major life lesson from tatreezRate, Review, & Follow on Your Favorite Podcast Platform“I love Palestinian embroidery and Tatreez Talk.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us elevate the vibrant narratives of Palestinian embroiderers and support more tatreez-ers — just like you — in learning more about tatreez and connecting with each other. You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and others -- just scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!Boycott Resolute RGL. Click here for more information.Follow us @tatreeztalkFollow Amanne @minamanne & Lina @linasthobe