Hand-Painted Floral Papier Mache Jewelry Box from Uzbekistan - Floral Customs

Artisan Organization: Olimjon Omonov

Country: Silk Road

"My name is Olimjon Omonov and I am from Uzbekistan. I come from an artistic family. My father is also an artist; he learned it from my uncle. My brother is an artist as well and my sister does embroidery. This craft is an inheritance from my father.

"I was fascinated by this art from a young age, and I used to go to an art club at my school, then to the school's art club, and finally to the workshop to hone my skills, which eventually led me to my main craft.

"While I primarily use new materials for our creations, my techniques remain traditional. I create my own design composition until the product is ready. In the production process, I use the necessary tools and instruments for each product. The product of my work aims to let people appreciate beauty in intricate lines, observe the harmony and proportion of colors, and demonstrate the role of giving a spiritual taste in the fast-paced era of innovation.

"One of my main goals is to preserve and develop this ancient art, which is disappearing from the world stage, for future generations on a global scale. This work requires patience, effort, and perseverance. Ornamentation painting involves a variety of tools and materials. Chisels, scrapers, pens, and others are used in drawing designs, while gouache, watercolor, tempera, pigments, and other paints, as well as silver and gold leaf, are used for coloring.

"I also draw oriental ornaments and miniature paintings; another field where I work is Qur'anic illuminations Of the Qur'an and Qur'anic manuscripts. Over the course of 7 years, I have worked on five Qur'ans of one-meter-long.

"Life consists of trials, and I have learned to be patient both in hardship and in happiness. I have achieved success both personally and in business, reaching higher levels and finding happiness in life's content. I am married and have a family. My middle child is also interested in this craft, and for now, I am fostering their small future, whether they choose a beloved profession or continue their education.

"We are all the same. This is how I see myself: "Mistakes may happen quickly, but being kind, speaking the truth, and being attentive are qualities of a good friend and companion". My motto is 'It may not be good now, today is better than yesterday, and tomorrow will be better.'

"I am pleased to convey a wonderful feeling and sincere gratitude to everyone who appreciates my creative work. I respect and love them very much!""