Cross Stitch Floral Cushion Cover from Uzbekistan - Garden Symphony

Artisan Organization: Yulduzoy Mamadiyorova

Country: Silk Road

"I was born and raised in Kashkadarya. My mother, who hailed from Tashkent, came to Kashkadarya as a bride. Growing up, I became well-acquainted with the national values thanks to my mother. We would occasionally visit my great-grandmother in Tashkent, where I found the lifestyles and professions of my relatives fascinating.

"Kashkadarya, being away from the cultural hub, lagged behind in terms of cultural development. However, my mother stood out among the village women. One day, my mother gathered the women of the village and began teaching them what she knew, including the secrets of her carpet-making profession. As a result, the village women started earning their own income and improved their financial situation. The residents of Shakhrisabz also started to appreciate the national culture. My mother's heroic help to everyone made a deep impression on me. Therefore, I strive to continue the profession of my ancestors.

"My aunt was an exceptional carpet weaver, and I always admired her. She had mastered this craft inside and out. She even participated in international exhibitions and traveled to many countries, showcasing her works. Eventually, she established herself as the director of a textile factory. When I was in the 8th grade, I began studying this profession in depth, either because I had been involved in it from an early stage or due to my profound interest and diligent study. I quickly became proficient in this craft. By the time I reached the 9th grade, I was teaching people older than me, sharing all the secrets of the profession.

"The history of our country is one of the greatest in the world, enriched with unique events rarely found in the annals of other nations. Our locals are aware of the countless wonderful national values we possess. I yearned for the whole world to witness this beauty and endeavored to bring our products to the global market. I vividly recall the days when I started my business in 2004.

"The locals didn't fully comprehend these products, resulting in low demand. Our city hardly received any tourists. To earn money, I took our products to Samarkand and sold them at various exhibitions. However, the earnings were insufficient, and the challenges grew more daunting. It led me to contemplate starting from scratch, pondering on ways to expand my business. Subsequently, I increased my participation in national and international exhibitions. I achieved a significant breakthrough when I won a GRAND award in America and explored the market. My life transformed entirely.

"This profession has afforded me numerous opportunities to travel across the globe. I have studied in America and France, and participated in international exhibitions in Moscow, Turkey, and Italy. I achieved victory at the FUERO International exhibition in Italy. My sole desire has been fulfilled. It wasn't merely to see the world, but to showcase our national identity to the world. Now, the entire world acknowledges the abundance of national treasures in our beautiful region.

"I am blessed with four children, and I am delighted that they, too, continue this profession.

"Almost all my dreams have materialized. The world has become aware of our national heritage. Now, my only wish is for peace and tranquility in our country.""