The weaving tradition in Anatolia under the scope of contemporary art and sustainability

Anadolu has a very rich history of about 12.000 years. It brings together every centuries cultural identity to create today's heritage. In today's world, what we see around and experience mostly is founded by Anatolian people in the early times. The weaving technology was firstly utilized as a need of insulation but then was developed as the technology was improved and today the carpets have become an important aspect of decoration. The role of weaving attributed to women as the symbols depicts with their inner world and emotions which show the state of the weaver. The tradition of weaving, has been transferred from mother to daughter through generations. This research is based on the history of weaving since Neolithic Era and how to create awareness on its value. This research draws a conclusion within the opinions of scholars and contemporary artists of how a tradition can be used in contemporary world within technology. The previous researches mainly focus on the traditional values thus field research became essential to analyze the current situation. Interviews conducted with the collectors, tradesman and Anatolian women who still continue weaving are the foundations of this thesis. The improving technology, first transforms our environment then changes human behavior. Lack of interest towards hand-made carpets and kilims and the diminishing economic value eventually caused women to stop weaving. After neoliberal economic policies have been adapted, individuals tend to become consumers and abandoned their productive skills. Industrialization provides to produce high volumes of the same product whilst sweeping away all the ancient values and traditions. Carpets used to be a symbol indicating the social class now this symbol is replaced by TVs and other technological items. It is been experienced that the carpets lost its origins and now only seen at the exhibitions, art shows and biennials. Carpets have been the translators of the history for generations and now the artists continue the value of this old tradition in their art practice. In the 21st Century, people need the sense of belonging more than ever. The carpets become the metaphor of this feeling and story of this century. This research aims to raise awareness on how this tradition loses its origins and forecast solutions through the contemporary art scene.