The International Day of Art: Celebrating Creativity and Cultural Expression
Art has been an integral part of human civilization for millennia, serving as a medium for expression, storytelling, and cultural preservation. The International Day of Art, celebrated annually on April 15th, honors the diversity and richness of artistic traditions worldwide. This day not only highlights the importance of art in our lives but also promotes creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange. Here are some interesting facts about the International Day of Art and the significance of art in society:
Origins of the International Day of Art: The International Day of Art was established by the International Association of Art (IAA/AIAP), a UNESCO partner NGO, in 2012. It was created to promote awareness of the role of art in society and to encourage dialogue and cooperation among artists, art organizations, and the general public.
Celebrating Artistic Diversity: One of the key themes of the International Day of Art is celebrating the diversity of artistic expressions across different cultures and regions. From traditional art forms like painting, sculpture, and music to contemporary mediums such as digital art, street art, and performance art, this day recognizes the myriad ways in which artists contribute to the cultural tapestry of humanity. Promoting Cultural Exchange: Art has the power to transcend language barriers and foster understanding between people from diverse backgrounds. The International Day of Art promotes cultural exchange by showcasing artworks from around the world and encouraging dialogue and collaboration among artists, art enthusiasts, and cultural institutions.
Empowering Artists: The day also serves as a platform to advocate for the rights and welfare of artists globally. It highlights the importance of supporting artists’ freedom of expression, promoting their professional development, and ensuring fair compensation for their work. Art plays a vital role in shaping societal discourse and challenging perceptions, and empowering artists is crucial for a vibrant and inclusive creative ecosystem.
Art for Social Change: Many artists use their creative talents to address pressing social issues and advocate for positive change. The International Day of Art recognizes the transformative power of art in raising awareness about important issues such as human rights, environmental conservation, and social justice. Through exhibitions, performances, and community projects, artists contribute to meaningful dialogue and inspire action.
Art Therapy and Wellbeing: Art is not only a form of expression but also a therapeutic tool that promotes mental health and wellbeing. The International Day of Art highlights the healing power of art therapy and its positive impact on individuals facing challenges such as trauma, stress, or illness. Creating art can be a cathartic process that fosters self-discovery, resilience, and emotional healing.
Digital Art and Technology: In an increasingly digital world, art continues to evolve with advancements in technology. The International Day of Art celebrates the fusion of art and technology, showcasing innovative works such as digital paintings, virtual reality installations, and interactive media art. These mediums push the boundaries of creativity and offer new avenues for artistic exploration.
Art Education and Access: Access to art education and cultural resources is essential for nurturing creativity and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts. The International Day of Art advocates for inclusive and accessible art education for people of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to explore their artistic talents and engage with diverse artistic experiences.
Sustainable Art Practices: As global awareness of environmental issues grows, so does the focus on sustainable art practices. The International Day of Art encourages artists to adopt eco-friendly approaches in their creative processes, from using recycled materials to promoting conservation themes in their work. Art can be a powerful catalyst for environmental stewardship and sustainability education.
Inspiring Future Generations: Finally, the International Day of Art inspires and empowers future generations of artists, encouraging young people to pursue their artistic passions and contribute to a more colorful and imaginative world. By fostering creativity, curiosity, and cultural awareness, art enriches our lives and shapes a brighter future for generations to come.
In conclusion, the International Day of Art is a celebration of creativity, cultural heritage, and the transformative power of artistic expression. It reminds us the profound impact art has on our lives and communities, from promoting dialogue and understanding to advocating for positive social change. Whether through traditional mediums or cutting-edge technologies, art continues to inspire, challenge, and unite us in the shared experience of human creativity.
As we know, the Turkmen folk applied art is rich and diverse. It includes many kinds of carpets and carpet articles, felts, embroideries and robes, head-dress, the jeweller and women's decorations, decorations for a horse, leather products and others. Peculiarities of the people's system and life are reflected in their crafts. Among diverse forms of folk applied arts Turkmen carpet weaving is the most developed and rich one, which has won worldwide fame and still is a success. For Turkmen nomads, the carpets were extremely important, covering wagon floors and forming collapsible walls, protecting them from the cold.
The applied arts of Turkmenistan embrace a wide range of materials used and methods of ornamentation. These include ceramics, metal chasing embossing, woodcarving, jewellery making, silk & gold embroidery, silk weaving, carpet making and leatherwork.
The traditional turkmen carpet making art in Turkmenistan relates to the production of traditional Turkmen carpets and carpet products: hand-woven woolen textile products decorated with ornamental art. The carpets feature a dense texture ornamented with characteristic coloured patterns pertaining to one of the five main Turkmen tribes. They are characterized by patterns forming clear linear geometric arrangements. The context in which the carpet weaver lives – including local flora, fauna and the environment – is reflected in the combination of threads, pictures and colours creating the carpet designs. Turkmen carpets are created on horizontal or vertical looms, mainly using different coloured wool threads. The carpets serve both as floor coverings and wall decorations, and special carpets are also woven for the birth of a child, wedding ceremonies, and prayer and mourning rituals. The carpet-making art is broadly integrated into the social and cultural life of Turkmen people and is considered as a sign of cultural identity and unity. Related skills and knowledge are transmitted within the family, and the viability of the tradition has been continuously ensured by community members. The annual celebration of Carpet Day plays a key role in the transmission of the element by gathering various communities, strengthening social ties and cooperation.
The National Turkmen Carpet Day is celebrated annually in Turkmenistan on the last Sunday of May. The holiday was established in 1992.
On this day, a ceremony of honoring the best women in the industry, who were awarded the honorary title of “Türkmenistanyn at Gazanan Halyçysy” ("Honored Carpet Weaver of Turkmenistan") by the Decree of esteemed President for their great services in developing the national art of carpet weaving and in honor of the Turkmen Carpet Day.
Aylar RUSLANOVA,
the 1st year student of the Faculty of International Economic Relations of the
Institute of the International Relations of the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.