Central Asian Arts

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the distinct styles of textiles, folk arts, architecture and music developed in Central Asia, which reflect the diverse values of the different cultures. These art forms have changed over time through cultural syncretism, innovation and revivalism of earlier forms, the author relates. Today textiles and music are the two most common art forms; whereas, in the past, the two most popular were architecture and folk music.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Textiles and Embroidery
Paintings
Architecture
Music
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The music of Turkmenistan is similar to that of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. It too consists primarily of singing a capella, accompanied by a lute; another instrument called the gijak, similar to the cello, is sometimes used. The performers are called bakshy, and are traditionally traveling performers who also function as shamans or traditional healers. The bekshy often perform at special ceremonies such as weddings and babies baptisms. However, the importance of their healing practices has diminished because of the emergence of the Islamic sheikhs' prominence."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Fitz-Gibbon, Kate and Andrew Hale. (2000). Ikat: Splendid Silks of Central Asia. Sydney: Laurence King Publishers.
• Harris, Collette. (2006). Muslim Youth: Tensions and Transitions in Tajikistan. Sussex, UK: Westview Press.
• Knobloch, Edgar. (2001). Monuments of Central Asia. New York: I.B.Tauris.
• Mallett, Marla. (2008). Contemporary Uzbek Suzanis. Textiles and Tribal Oriental Rugs. Retrieved: December 8, 2008 <http://www.marlamallett.com>
• Paine, Sheila. (2007). Embroidery from Afghanistan. Seattle: University of Washington Press.

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