Realm Soul

My name is Burul, and I hail from the beautiful land of Kyrgyzstan. My journey into the world of artisanal craftsmanship began when I was just a little girl of five. It was my aunt on my dad's side who introduced me to the magical realm of needlework. I can still vividly recall those early days… Read more when I eagerly sat by her side, learning how to knit. The satisfaction of creating something with my own hands was a feeling like no other, and it set the stage for a lifelong love affair with handicrafts.

My very first independent creation was a tiny knitted hat, carefully crafted for my cherished doll. That hat was a symbol of my newfound passion and the beginning of my journey as an artisan. Little did I know then that this humble hobby would evolve into my life's work.

As I grew older, my affinity for needlework only deepened. After returning home from school, my heart always gravitated towards my beloved craft. Looking back, I can't help but wonder if it was something in my genes that made me a quick learner. My mother and grandmother, as well as generations before them, were all skilled in various forms of handicrafts. It seemed that the artistry and creativity flowed through my veins.

Upon completing my ninth grade, I embarked on a new educational journey, one that would shape my destiny further. I enrolled in a Turkish lyceum, where I received formal education in folk crafts. This step allowed me to refine my skills and learn about the rich tradition of Kyrgyz handicrafts.

Simultaneously, I pursued a second education in accounting, a practical choice for many. However, my heart remained firmly attached to the world of crafts. The more I learned and honed my skills, the more I realized that my true calling was in preserving and promoting the ancient traditions of Kyrgyz craftsmanship.

For the past 22 years, I have immersed myself in the art of crafting shyrdak, a traditional Kyrgyz felt carpet. Shyrdak-making is often associated with older women, and there are few of my generation who pursue this craft. The fear of losing our rich heritage and the intricate techniques of needlework compelled me to take action.

My dream is to establish a handicraft ethnic center, a place where parents can bring their children during holidays and weekends. Here, we can impart the wisdom of our crafts and culture to the younger generation, ensuring that our traditions continue to flourish. This center would also provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, nestled in the pristine mountainous regions of our beloved country.

Shyrdak, these traditional felt carpets, are more than just artifacts; they are a testament to our heritage. Our ancestors, stretching back generations, were adept at this craft. In 2012, the art of Shyrdak-making, along with Ala-Kiiz, was recognized by UNESCO and included in the Intangible Cultural Heritage List.

In our shyrdak production, we adhere to the time-honored techniques passed down through the ages. Our tools are simple yet essential: needles, knives or scissors, and hand spinning wheels. These tools, in the hands of skilled artisans, transform wool into stunning pieces of art that tell the stories of our culture and history.

As I continue on my journey as an artisan, I am driven not only by my passion for craftsmanship but also by the desire to ensure that our traditions endure for generations to come. Through my work, I hope to weave a brighter future for Kyrgyzstan, where the threads of our culture remain unbroken, connecting us to our roots and preserving the legacy of our ancestors.