In the heart of Anatolia, amidst the whispers of centuries-old traditions, lies a timeless art form waiting to be rediscovered. At Daima, we embark on a journey through history to revive the ancient crafts of tel kırma and oya, preserving their rich heritage while embracing a contemporary spirit.
Tel Kırma: A Legacy of Craftsmanship
Tel kırma, which translates to "cut thread" in Turkish, is a delicate form of embroidery that dates back to the 17th century Ottoman Empire. This intricate craft involves the meticulous process of cutting and weaving metallic threads—gold, silver, or copper—into elaborate designs. Traditionally used to embellish textiles for ceremonial and decorative purposes, tel kırma holds a significant place in Anatolian culture.
Each piece of tel kırma is a testament to the skill and patience required to master this art form. Artisans use special flat needles to create intricate patterns without the use of scissors, making the process labor-intensive and time-consuming. These motifs often draw inspiration from nature and geometric shapes, reflecting the rich tapestry of Turkish cultural identity.
At Daima, we collaborate with skilled artisans across Anatolia to preserve and promote tel kırma. Our designs blend traditional techniques with modern aesthetics, resulting in exquisite pieces that pay homage to the craftsmanship of the past while embracing contemporary elegance. Through our commitment to reviving tel kırma, we aim to celebrate Anatolian heritage and provide economic opportunities for artisans, supporting sustainable practices.
Oya: A Tradition of Expression
Oya, a traditional Anatolian needle lace art form, has been a medium of self-expression for women and girls for centuries. The Turkish word "oya" refers to various narrow lace trimmings used to decorate garments and household textiles. Oya can be created using a variety of techniques, including crochet, needle, hairpin, and tatting, appearing in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional forms.
Dating back to the 8th century BC, oya is deeply rooted in the cultural identity of Turkey and the eastern Mediterranean region. In Anatolian culture, women often wore headscarves or handkerchiefs adorned with oya to convey information about their social status or personal circumstances. Specific colors and motifs could indicate whether a woman was engaged, married, pregnant, widowed, or mourning, turning each piece of oya into a subtle yet powerful form of communication.
The motifs in oya often reflect a sensitive response to nature and beauty. Artisans closely observe flowers and other natural elements, crafting each piece with care and precision. The result is a vibrant tapestry of familiar flowers and symbolic designs, each telling a story of the artist's surroundings and experiences.
Today, oya continues to be highly regarded and widely used across Turkey. Women incorporate oya into various items, from clothing and household textiles to accessories like belts and handbags. This craft not only adds character and charm to everyday items but also serves as a bridge between past and present, preserving cultural heritage while allowing for contemporary expression.
Daima's Commitment to Craftsmanship
At Daima, we honor the legacy of tel kırma and oya, blending traditional techniques with modern design to create pieces that are both timeless and contemporary. Our commitment to these crafts is a celebration of Anatolian heritage, a testament to the enduring beauty of handmade artistry, and an avenue for economic empowerment for women artisans.
Join us on this journey through history as we revive the art of tel kırma and oya, creating a connection to the rich tapestry of Anatolian heritage while embracing the spirit of innovation. Discover the magic of these ancient crafts with Daima and experience a blend of history, craftsmanship, and modernity in every piece we create.