An invitation from Timbuktu:

Mohamed El Maouloud Ag Hamid has been leading the preservation of Tuareg heritage for over 30 years. His collective, Timidwa, sustains more than 100 male and female artisans through exhibitions and festivals. The documentary The Art of Friendship captures this legacy, taking you into the lives of the people behind the products. We, a small team of friends and supporters of Timidwa, created the film to expand the collective's reach and support artisans' livelihoods, but it has only screened a handful of times because marketing fees, travel, and venue rental costs are out of reach. Whether you can give, spread the word, or connect us with cultural venues and partners, your involvement truly matters.

Timidwa is not a large brand (yet). They operate on a small-batch production model. Sales fund the next round of materials, and the cycle continues. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted individually by master artisans- carrying on skills passed down through generations.

Our ask: to get the film in front of new audiences and resources that sales alone cannot cover: travel to screenings, event setup and raw materials for creating new pieces to showcase alongside the film screening events.

We need $8,000 to get this film in front of the galleries, festivals, and cultural spaces that can help Timidwa secure its next generation.

All proceeds from this crowdfunding will go toward:

Venue and participation fees: most spaces charge to host, which limits our reach and access.

Travel to screenings and exhibitions: flights, accommodation, and ground transport so we can host the Q&A and activations after the film is shown.

Creating new pieces for sale: high-end materials, including silver and leather, so we have stock ready when opportunities arise. Having products at screenings is another layer of support for Timidwa artisans.

No grants. No institutional backing. Just a story that needs to be seen.

Share this if you believe the keepers of The Art of Friendship legacy deserve a global audience.

Your past support brought this story to life. Now, we need your help to take the next steps:

We are a small volunteer-led team with a big mission — to ensure Tuareg voices, traditions, and artistry are celebrated for generations to come. Your level of support can make a world of difference:

Friend of Timidwa – $50

Join our circle of supporters keeping Tuareg artistry alive.

Cultural Ally – $100

Help bring our film and artisans’ work to new communities worldwide.

Artisan Advocate – $200

Strengthen our capacity to host global screenings and exhibitions.

Heritage Sponsor – $500

Play a vital role in expanding our reach through cultural events and partnerships.

Legacy Patron – $1,000+

Stand as a cornerstone supporter in safeguarding Tuareg heritage through art, film, and storytelling.

Our goal is to secure our next series of screenings for 2027. Every contribution, share, and connection brings us closer. Whether you can give, spread the word, or connect us with cultural venues and partners, your involvement truly matters.

Thank you for walking this journey with us. We could not do it without you.

With Gratitude,

Memunah

Film co-producer

Ambassador of Timidwa

Coming to a screen near you! The Art of Friendship: The Preservation of Tuareg Culture Through Craftsmanship. @artoffriendship.doc

Follow Association Timidwa on the socials.

Be sure to follow their Instagram pages @artoffriendship.doc

@associationtimidwa @timidwajewelerydesign

Like..Share..Spread the word!

#associationtimidwa #tuareg #mali #theartoffriendship #timbuktu

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Timidwa means 'Friendship in Tamasheq

Friendship is the foundation of Association Timidwa, bringing people together united in common creative goals. Timidwa, founded in 1997 by Mohamed El Maouloud Ag Hamid, is a collective of over 100 male and female artisans, including silversmiths, leather and wood workers, from Timbuktu, Mali. https://www.associationtimidwa.com

Thank you for your continued support. Like and share the AOF Trailer.

Timidwa's Website