Etho festival gathers best craftspeople of Almaty region

‘Zhetisu - revival of the Great Silk Road’ - Almaty region hosted an ethno festival of crafts. The event was dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s Independence. Several dozen applied arts masters presented their works made of silk, wool, felt, leather, wood and natural stones.

 “These are our traditional patterns. This ornament called ‘synar muyiz’ represents a single horn of a ram, and if combined, they make a heart silhouette. And these bracelets, with such patterns, are worn by our grandmothers. They also have their own meanings and are believed to ensure that the family prospers and procreates,” craftsperson Zaiyt Saidilkhan said.

Craftswoman Anargul Zhamankulkyzy has been sewing national clothes using felt for more than 10 years. She has even created an entire women’s collection. According to her, it is possible to make the most bold and beautiful outfits from environmentally friendly material. In turn, the organizers believe that the ancient craft should be popularized among the younger generation.

“The younger generation needs this so that they do not forget their roots, so that they always remember them, and maybe some of them can even learn it, so that our national heritage continues. It is very important, because now in the 21st century people are drawn to western culture. I want to see this kind of events be held often,” noted Aikesh Mukasheva, Honored Artist of Kazakhstan.

There is intent to make this ethno festival a tradition. National tourist organizations and non-governmental associations of the region have already signed a corresponding memorandum. According to the organizers, this now will be the region’s signature event in the development of ethno and agritourism.

 

Translation by Assem Zhanmukhanova

Editing by Galiya Khassenkhanova