Bulbul Kapkyzy, a native of the Bayan Olgii province in Mongolia, carries with her a deep connection to the Kazakh ethnic group and their cultural traditions. Growing up in a yurt and witnessing the intricate craftsmanship involved in its creation, Bulbul developed a profound passion for needlework, a skill that would shape her life's journey. Today, as the head of the Alasha Art Center, she dedicates her talents to crafting yurts, creation of the interior decorations of arts (baskur, zhelbau), traditional weaving of carpets in the Kazakh style (alasha).
Raised by parents who were not only teachers but also held a keen interest in needlework, Bulbul inherited their knowledge and learned various techniques from her grandmother. Fueled by a desire to bring more beauty into homes and create unique, handmade items that were hard to find elsewhere, Bulbul began sewing, knitting, and designing her own creations. The beauty and craftsmanship of her work caught the attention of guests, who expressed their admiration and desire to own similar pieces. Encouraged by this response, Bulbul embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, turning her passion into a thriving business.
Through her dedication to preserving traditional arts and crafts, Bulbul not only meets a demand for exquisite handmade items but also plays a crucial role in keeping Kazakh cultural heritage alive. Her work is testament to the value of craftsmanship, the importance of passing down traditional skills from one generation to the next, and the appreciation for beauty that resonates with both locals and visitors alike.
Bulbul's artistic journey began in her early years, with a love for embroidery and carpet-weaving. After completing her studies in Accounting at a university in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, she found little satisfaction in the field and instead dedicated her free time to practicing her beloved crafts. However, it was in Kazakhstan where Bulbul truly found her calling.
Relocating to Kazakhstan posed challenges, with a new culture and language to adapt to. While working as a taxi driver for twelve years, she seized the opportunity to generate additional income by creating and selling her unique handmade carpets. Her sons also joined her artistic journey, learning the craft of carpet weaving and becoming essential members of her dedicated team.
With her expertise in traditional Kazakh weaving techniques, Bulbul not only found personal fulfillment but also became a prominent advocate for Kazakh crafts, especially among the younger generation. Her remarkable talents earned her recognition and admiration from her peers, leading to her participation in various festivals and winning several contests among artisans.
In 2018, Bulbul received the prestigious UNESCO Award of Excellence, a testament to the exceptional quality of her work and her commitment to preserving and promoting Kazakh cultural heritage. She has also been honored with the National Nauryz award and a badge medal for "Excellence in Culture," recognizing her significant contribution to the development of national culture. Her involvement in exhibitions, contests, and festivals not only showcases her remarkable skills but also serves as an inspiration to others, encouraging them to embrace their artistic aspirations and celebrate traditional crafts. Bulbul enrolled in the Kazakh National Women's Pedagogical University, specializing in Arts and Management.
In 2019, Bulbul took a significant step in preserving and reviving the art of carpet weaving by opening the Alasha Art Centre. Recognizing that the techniques of this traditional craft were at risk of being lost between generations, Bulbul established the center to teach young people the art of carpet weaving.
Operating within the Sarkyt Spiritual-Cultural Museum, Bulbul's art center provides a space for master classes, where she demonstrates the traditional hand-weaving techniques used in carpet making. With her knowledge and skills, Bulbul ensures that the artistry of carpet weaving remains alive. For Bulbul, embroidery and weaving are not mere hobbies but a part of her daily life, stating, "I sleep and wake up with embroidery."
Bulbul actively engages with the local community by teaching weekly art classes for schoolgirls at the Bilim Innovation School, located within the Sarqyt Museum. Beyond teaching artistic techniques, she incorporates lessons on kazakh traditional values. By being a role model and always wearing traditional clothing, which she sews herself, Bulbul prepares young people to preserve Kazakh cultural heritage. The schoolgirls show great interest in the world of handmade crafts, inspired by Bulbul's passion and dedication.
While proud of the ongoing revival of Kazakh culture and traditions in Kazakhstan, Bulbul also recognizes the need for accurate representation. She emphasizes the importance of using proper Kazakh terms. As she states, "I know all types of Kazakh art, and I am a high-level master. My mission is to convey all my knowledge and skills to the young generation." Bulbul Kapkyzy's journey from a taxi driver to a revered figure in the world of carpet weaving is evidence of her perseverance, dedication, and pursuit of her passion. Through her art, she not only supports her family but also contributes to the preservation and promotion of Kazakh cultural heritage. Bulbul's story is testament to the transformative power of following an artistic calling and the profound impact it can have on personal fulfillment and the appreciation of cultural heritage.
Bulbul Kapkyzy
