Mereke Aidarsha is a felt maker and weaver in Kazakhstan.
Photo courtesy of Alexey Malchenko
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Kazakhstan Artisan Initiative
The largest country in Central Asia, Kazakhstan is a region of vast steppes, rich traditions, and resilient spirit. During the Soviet era, Kazakh language, culture, and identity were systematically suppressed, and traditional craft practices were discouraged or displaced. But the post-Soviet period has seen a powerful cultural revival, as Kazakh people reconnect with their heritage and reimagine traditions for a new generation.
The Kazakhstan Artisan Initiative supports community-based work and cross-cultural exchange to strengthen cultural sustainability in Kazakhstan. In partnership with the Union of Artisans of Kazakhstan (UoA) and with support from Chevron, the Center provides research, documentation, participatory workshops and mentorship, and market access activities. These efforts strengthen artisan networks, enhance the skills and income of artisan enterprises, and increase youth participation in craft practices. We work with local partners to not only uplift craft communities but also build global appreciation for Kazakhstani cultural heritage.
This initiative is the first project of the Kazakhstan Cultural Heritage Fund, a wider Chevron effort for advancing the visibility and sustainability of Kazakhstan’s living traditions.
Mereke Aidarsha is a felt maker and weaver in Kazakhstan.
Photo courtesy of Alexey Malchenko
Partners
Key Activities
Research and Documentation
During an initial research trip in May 2025, the project team will visit artisans in Almaty, Taraz, and Turkistan, Kazakhstan, to gain a deeper understanding of their needs and collaboratively design a tailored training program. During this research trip, the Center and UoA will host an artisan roundtable to explore ways to engage youth and local communities in sustaining traditional craft practices. The team will also meet with community members to identify potential partners that will broaden and strengthen artisans’ networks and collaboration opportunities.
U.S. Learning Exchange and Workshop
In July 2025, six Kazakh artisans will travel to Santa Fe, New Mexico, for a learning and exchange experience at the International Folk Art Market (IFAM). Following their participation in IFAM, the artisans will continue to Tucson, Arizona—Almaty’s sister city—to engage with cultural heritage practitioners and deepen connections between craft and culture in both cities.
While in Santa Fe, the Center will lead a three-day workshop tailored to the needs identified during the initial research trip. The workshop will also foster peer-to-peer learning and help strengthen relationships among the participating artisans.
Almaty Craft Festival Learning Exchange
In September 2025, artisans will put their newly gained skills and insights into practice at the Almaty Craft Festival. The festival will provide opportunities to connect with local markets, enhance visibility, and build relationships with potential sales partners. Building on connections formed in July, four Tucson-based artisans will travel to Almaty to participate in the craft festival alongside their Kazakh artisan counterparts, further strengthening cross-cultural collaboration.
Staff
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