A unique ethnographic museum and craft
workshop have been launched at the OzgeEpic creative hub in Astana to host
masterclasses aimed at reviving traditional Kazakh arts and preserving cultural
heritage. This initiative is spearheaded by the Beisbekov family of
craftspeople, where everyone has been accustomed to working since childhood.
The girls, alongside their mothers, meticulously create tapestry and felt
products, embroider and weave carpets following the oldest ancestral traditions.
The men and boys are also actively involved, engaging in the processing of wood,
metal, and leather, as well as other folk arts. The workshop staff are willing
to teach these crafts to others, as it is important to pass on traditions
through the generations, Berik Beisbekov believes.
«We are planning to hold
masterclasses here for those who want to get acquainted with Kazakh folk
crafts. One can choose from various types of craftsmanship and learn it. We
make different items from felt. We also offer masterclasses in sewing hats,
silk scarves, shoes, and vests for small children. Besides, it’s possible to
learn how to make leather whips, modern bracelets, and purses. There are also
masterclasses in carpet weaving,» said Berik Beisbekov, member of the Union of
Artists of Kazakhstan.
Additionally, foreign tourists
come to the workshop eager to learn about the traditional lifestyle of the
Kazakh people. Various interesting souvenirs are available here for purchase,
including Kazakh traditional amulets, painted clay animal figurines, silver
women’s jewelry, wool felt toys, assyks, and others. Overall, the hub features
six rooms, with one serving as a venue for various themed events such as
literary and musical evenings, seminars, presentations, and courses. There is also
an art gallery where contemporary artists can hold solo exhibitions, a theater
space, book and smart rooms.
«The OzgeEpic creative hub was
opened in Astana as part of the instructions given by President Tokayev on the
development of the creative industry, which offers a wide range of
opportunities for the promotion of the Kazakh language. Its aim is to develop
modern competitive Kazakh art and craftsmanship. The work of our creative hub
is generally aimed at promoting and supporting talented creative youth engaged
in various forms of creativity,» said Malika Myrza, project manager of the
Ozgeepic creative hub in Astana.
Notably, creative hubs have also
been opened in Almaty and Turkistan. In the near future, a creative space will
be launched in the west of the country, in the city of Oral.
