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MOHAJER
Research and installation

Muhajir or Mohajir (Arabic: مهاجر, muhājir) means migrant or traveler. This was the name of the refugee social project that operated in Zaimi 24 before the ESTO Association. The ‘Bag Mohajer’ project, run by refugees with a German designer’s help, produced bags using remnants of plastic boats and life vests from refugees’ arrivals on Lesbos island. Through Nassim Muradi, a young refugee from Afghanistan, we learned about this story and connected with those involved to preserve its memory in our studio.

The multimedia installation featured objects, graphics, recorded stories, and Adrian Oeser’s 2017 documentary on Bag Mohajer. It honored the space’s history, and the stories of the refugees who lived in Exarchia. Inspired by the decorative symbols of freedom and movement (birds, boats, etc.) used on the Mohajer bags and elements from Victoria train station—a key point for many refugees—we incorporated these motifs into exhibition objects that later became part of our furniture.

The installation was carried out in collaboration with the ANKAA project, a former collaborator of the ‘Bag Mohajer’ project, and Tajikistan designer Shafi Qias. Together we created parts of the installation and they also provided us with materials from the bags.

Artist and Curator: Esto Association
Photos by Danae Panagiotidi








































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Emphasizing design´s trasformative potential, we showcase the possibilities that artistic practices can address critical political issues. We prioritize collaborations with art initiatives, non-profit organizations, grassroots groups, and institutions while actively engaging with local communities.


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Object  / Spatial Design
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Zaimi 24 10683, Athens