In the vast grasslands of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Jengisgul Nurdahin has become a guardian of nomadic history. For over three decades, the 57-year-old craftswoman has dedicated herself to preserving the art of yurt-making – a cornerstone of Kazakh cultural identity increasingly threatened by modernization.
'A yurt is not just a home; it carries our ancestors' wisdom,' Nurdahin told KhabarAsia.com, her hands deftly weaving willow branches into the circular lattice framework. Her workshop in Altay Prefecture trains younger artisans in traditional techniques, from hand-stitching felt covers to crafting wooden crown wheels that symbolize unity.
This preservation effort comes as China emphasizes cultural heritage protection. Yurts remain vital for pastoral communities, with over 60% of Xinjiang's Kazakh herders still using them seasonally. However, synthetic materials and prefabricated structures challenge traditional methods.
Nurdahin's work extends beyond craftsmanship. She collaborates with local museums to document oral histories and adapts designs for contemporary use, proving tradition can coexist with modernity. 'Every knot I tie connects past and future,' she said, her workshop filled with the earthy scent of sun-dried timber.
