Alybek is originally from the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, where he currently resides. Since 1995, he has been engaged in independent activities, combining yurt making with livestock farming. The craft was passed down to him from his father, who was also a master, just like his grandfather.
Alybek's father and mother are honored teachers, but they also excelled in folk crafts, and his father headed the artistic and production direction in the "Kyyal" association. From childhood, helping his parents, Alybek absorbed their craftsmanship, which largely determined his choice of profession.
Initially, to create yurts, Alybek used traditional methods, such as heating wood in manure and water. However, over time he adapted to modern technologies and now uses a steaming method to achieve the desired shape. The poplar needed for making parts is purchased from various regions, mainly in the Jeti-Oguz district.
The yurts created by Alybek are popular not only in Kyrgyzstan but also beyond its borders. Last year, the government of Qatar purchased five yurts for events dedicated to Kyrgyz culture, which his son Aktan set up on-site. Additionally, one yurt was sent to the Kyrgyz diaspora in Kamchatka, and tourists from Taiwan also placed an order for a yurt after visiting the master.
Currently, Alybek and his family are working on 7-meter diameter yurts for Kazakh clients. Prices for yurts vary depending on size and individual requirements, starting from 250,000 soms and reaching up to 20,000 dollars. All yurts are handmade, ensuring their high quality.
In the summer, the family also offers tourist services, including demonstrations of the yurt making and installation process, as well as preparing national dishes for guests. Alybek also rents out yurts for weddings, matchmaking meetings, and other celebrations, setting the price by prior agreement with the client.
“Our yurts are completely handmade. In the summer, we not only work on production but also welcome tourists, showing them the process and preparing national dishes. This also brings income to our family,” shares Alybek.
In the future, he plans to expand his business by building guest houses in the form of yurts to improve tourist services. Alybek has one son and four daughters, as well as a grandson, whom he hopes to raise in the spirit of craftsmanship. “I became a master thanks to my father, and now my son Aktan has already surpassed me. I hope my grandson Aydar will continue our tradition and become a renowned master,” he concludes.
