The Secret Stories of Kyrgyz Wall Hangings

The Kyrgyz people have a rich history of nomadic life in Central Asia. For over 2, 000 years, they moved with the seasons, living in yurts and raising livestock. Their homes were adorned with large, hand-embroidered textiles called tush kyiz. These textiles are not just decorations; they tell stories and represent the values and beliefs of the Kyrgyz people. One person who became fascinated by these textiles is Ann Marie Burk. She first encountered them while living in Kyrgyzstan, where she taught English for two years. A woman invited her for tea and showed her beautiful tush kyiz. Burk was so captivated that she bought all eight pieces the woman had. This purchase started her extensive collection, which now includes over 200 textiles. Each tush kyiz is unique, embroidered with tiny, detailed stitches. They often feature symbols like crossroads, representing choices, and the Tree of Life, symbolizing family. Birds are also common, seen as messengers from the spirit world. These textiles offer a glimpse into Kyrgyz culture before Russia occupied the region in 1921 and transformed it into a Soviet state. During the Soviet era, the Kyrgyz people were encouraged to abandon their traditional ways. The crafting of tush kyiz became a lost art, with almost none made after 1970. Burk's collection includes pieces from before and during this time, showcasing the rich history and symbolism of the Kyrgyz people. Burk believes these textiles should be displayed in museums or galleries. She has already sold four pieces to the Minneapolis Institute of Art. While she enjoys her collection, she wants to ensure these cultural treasures are preserved and appreciated by many. The tush kyiz, known as the "Song of Silence, " continue to tell their stories, offering a window into a culture that should not be forgotten.