Sabina Burkhanova

Bukhara Silk Carpets

Carpet maker

Red, for the power of the sun

Sabina set up her workshop in 2010
Silk carpets are typical of the Bukhara region
Some carpets may take two years to make

Sabina Burkhanova preserves the ancient craft of carpet weaving and all that makes it spectacularly local and unique. She established Bukhara Silk Carpets in 2010, following the tradition passed in her family through generations. Throughout all these years Sabina claims that hundreds of apprentices have learned with her. "Young people learn the intricacies of this complex art to make sure that the tradition lives on," she says. In her workshop she and her team produce a particular type of silk carpet, specific to the Bukhara region. These carpets have short piles, which are practical in the dusty climate. Another typical feature is that Sabina's patterns always contain some shades of red, a colour linked to the power of the sun and to flames.

Interview

How did you choose your profession?: I inherited this know-how from my family. I am the fifth generation of silk carpet makers on my father's side. My mother was a potter.
Where did you study and for how long?: I studied at college in London for four years before coming back to Uzbekistan to set up Bukhara Silk Carpets. My business has grown a lot in the years I have run it and today it is one of the biggest in Bukhara.
What inspires you when designing ornaments?: I am inspired by music and homage to history. Being part of a long legacy is meaningful to me. Tourism plays a big role in Bukhara and I believe that continuing to make traditional Uzbek motifs is key to my work being desirable to buyers.
Do you have any advice for young students?: If a person wants to achieve something, they have every chance to achieve it! As a multi-linguist myself, I would encourage young people to learn languages as they open doors over the course of a lifetime.

Sabina Burkhanova is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2002