Embodying the Spirit of the Yurt 🏕️
In the vast landscapes of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the yurt stands as a timeless symbol of nomadic life. For centuries, these round, tent-like shelters have housed Kazakh herders as they follow the rhythms of the steppe.
Jengisgul Nurdahin, a 57-year-old native craftswoman, has spent years dedicating herself to preserving every detail of this traditional craftsmanship. From fitting the circular wooden frame to layering the thick felt that keeps out the desert chill, she studies each technique passed down by her elders.
“I aspire to pay tribute to this ancient art form by becoming its living embodiment,” she explains, her eyes shining with determination. ❤️
Beyond building yurts, Jengisgul dreams of sharing her skills with a new generation. She imagines community workshops where youth learn to weave felt panels, shape wooden ribs, and taste the pride of carrying on a heritage that bridges past and present.
As she threads needle through felt and tightens every rope, Jengisgul Nurdahin isn't just crafting a shelter—she's weaving the future of nomadic tradition, ensuring the spirit of the yurt endures under open skies for years to come.
Reference(s):
Craftswoman aspires to preserve traditional yurt heritage in Xinjiang
cgtn.com
