PRESERVING KYRGIZ HERITAGE

Callie’s photography is all about capturing raw, genuine moments. Her unique perspective and positive outlook shine through her work, as she focuses on individuals to reveal their true essence. She strives to share the beauty she discovers with a broader audience. For Callie, photography transcends mere memory-making; it becomes a bridge for connection and communication with others.

Her talent hasn’t gone unnoticed, with her work featured in numerous exhibitions, winning awards, and gracing the pages of international magazines and books.

What draws you to the arts?

For me, art is something that you make others see, that has the power to transform, inspire, motivate, and be creative. I channel my passion for art through photography, I capture subjects and stories through my perspective, crafting images that convey my expression and connect with others.

What do you like best about this project?

I hope this project can help raise awareness about the importance of preserving traditional handicrafts to inspire young people to embrace this valuable fading away traditional craft.

Captured through the lens of documentary photographer Callie Eh, the art of shyrdak and Ala kiyiz—traditional felt carpets—comes alive in the work of Saadagul Sadykova, a master craftswoman from Kyrgyzstan. Born in 1961 in the village of Tolok, Saadagul’s journey into the world of felt-making began at just 13 years old, under the guidance of her mother. This early immersion in the craft not only shaped her creative skills but also instilled in her a deep appreciation for the painstaking, labour-intensive process of crafting shyrdaks.

Shyrdak, a vibrant and intricately stitched felt floor covering, has long been a part of Kyrgyz cultural heritage. Its creation is a slow, meticulous process, where each piece is imbued with generations of tradition and skill. Saadagul, with her unparalleled craftsmanship, has dedicated her life to preserving this art form.

In 1996, Saadagul moved to Kochkor, a town that would become the heart of her collaborative efforts. There, she joined forces with local women to create Altyn Kol, meaning “Golden Hand”—a cooperative aimed at providing economic support for families in the wake of the Soviet Union’s collapse. This initiative not only offered a valuable source of income but also allowed the women of Kochkor to showcase their craftsmanship to a wider audience, especially tourists. Today, Altyn Kol boasts around 200 skilled women whose handmade products reflect the essence of Kyrgyz culture, each item crafted with 100% sheep wool.

The cultural significance of their work extends beyond mere artistry. Saadagul and the cooperative’s women hold an annual exhibition in Bishkek, specifically curated for embassy workers and expatriates.

This event showcases their beautifully crafted felt products, highlighting their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and sharing it with the world.

Saadagul’s dedication to her craft has led her beyond the borders of Kyrgyzstan. In both 2007 and 2017, she was invited to Switzerland to share her techniques and expertise in felt-making, further cementing her reputation as a cultural ambassador. Yet, Saadagul’s most lasting legacy may lie in her mentorship. Through her masterclasses, she passes on the traditions of felt-making to younger generations. Although attracting youth to the craft has proven challenging, Saadagul remains hopeful that her passion and teachings will inspire a new wave of artisans to preserve and perpetuate this beautiful cultural heritage.

Documentary photography plays a crucial role in preserving not just the visual beauty of these felt carpets but the stories and traditions they represent. Callie’s photographs beautifully capture the essence of Saadagul’s work, offering a glimpse into the world of a traditional craft that is both deeply rooted in Kyrgyz culture and in danger of fading into the past. Through these images, we are reminded of the power of cultural preservation and the importance of passing down these age-old skills to future generations.

Saadagul Sadykova’s journey is a testament to the resilience of tradition and the vital role that artisans like her play in safeguarding cultural heritage. Through her artistry, she continues to weave the fabric of Kyrgyzstan’s history, one stitch at a time.