Member Program: Collector Conversations: Melissa Keshishian

In this program series, members are invited to conversations between curators and collectors whose donated textile treasures feature in Enduring Traditions: Celebrating the World of Textiles. 

Join Chief Curator/Avenir Foundation Curator Sumru Belger Krody as she interviews collector Melissa Keshishian. Keshishian and her husband, former Textile Museum trustee Harold Keshishian, built an important personal collection of antique carpets and textiles, in addition to working with clients across the Washington area. In this conversation, Melissa Keshishian highlights their collecting and artwork donations to The Textile Museum, including carpets exhibited in Enduring Traditions. 

About the Exhibition 
Around the globe, textiles have long played a role in celebrations, performances and religious observances. On the occasion of The Textile Museum’s centennial, Enduring Traditions: Celebrating the World of Textiles explores the cultural significance of treasures from the collection. From royal robes to ceremonial carpets, these exceptional textiles reveal the traditions and values of communities across continents. Learn more about the exhibition 

About Melissa Keshishian

Melissa McGee Keshishian is a rug and textile expert in Washington, D.C. She and her late husband, Harold Mark Keshishian, worked together at Mark Keshishian and Sons, a leading provider of antique and contemporary rugs, where she continues as manager. She also teaches classes on textile repair and care.

About Sumru Belger Krody

Sumru Belger Krody serves as the museum’s chief curator and Avenir Foundation Curator. She is also editor of The Textile Museum Journal. Krody is a specialist in textiles from the late antique era and Islamic world. She holds degrees in classical archaeology from Istanbul University and the University of Pennsylvania.

How to Participate

This program is for museum members and will take place online.  If you are already a member, please register online. If you are not currently a member, you can join or renew online. 

About Member Programs

Support the museum and enjoy access to special members-only programs, including curator talks and behind-the-scenes tours. Browse upcoming programs