OREANDA-NEWS. March 28, 2008. Continuing its work with Kazakh artisans to create opportunities and develop business skills and networks, Eurasia Foundation of Central Asia (EFCA) held a conference earlier this month. The event, entitled “Rebirth and Development of Craftsmanship in Kazakhstan,” was held March 15-16 at the Presidential Center for Culture and featured exhibitions by Kazakh artisans. These exhibits displayed national clothing and textiles, ceramics, and traditional crafts made from felt, leather and wood. The event focused on the revival of traditional arts in Kazakhstan, and topics discussed included the results of market research throughout the country; best practices from the United States, the UK, Poland and Uzbekistan; and reports from international organizations on the development of craftsmanship.

The launch event, held on March 14, was attended by representatives from the government, embassies, international organizations, museums and businesses, along with students, professors and artists. At the ceremony, the Minister of Culture and Information, the Minister of Tourism and Sports, Chevron, EFCA, the Erzhan Tatishev Foundation and public foundation “Our Heritage” signed a memorandum of understanding on issues regarding artistry in Kazakhstan. This document represents a larger partnership in EFCA’s program to preserve traditional crafts and support artisans.

To assist with the program’s outreach, EFCA and its partners have created an informational newsletter, and are planning to develop a national catalogue as well as a chain of resource centers.