As reported by a Turmush correspondent, Hamza Usokeev is a talented master from the village of Saruu, who brings leather to life with his brush, reviving the forgotten Kyrgyz art. His works are actively sold not only in Russia and Kazakhstan but are also sent to Japan, Hungary, and Bulgaria.
Born on March 15, 2000, Hamza showed an interest in creativity from an early age. “I started drawing in school, using colored and black-and-white pencils. I remember when my mom brought me the watercolor set ‘Luch,’ and it was a real event for me. From that moment, I immersed myself in the world of painting,” he shares.
In the sixth grade, Hamza learned about the Turgunbai Sadykov Art College in Cholpon-Ata and decided to enroll there. “In the courses, we studied various drawing techniques: painting, drawing, sculpture, composition, and clay modeling,” he recounts.
Continuing his studies at the Chuykov Art Academy in Bishkek, he became interested in leatherworking and deepened his knowledge in this field. His mentors, member of the USSR Union of Artists Zhanibek Shakirov and master Ishen Chalyanov, helped him master the craft. “They shared all their knowledge with us without any secrets. I am very grateful to them, as their work was important for my development. There are many talented people in Kyrgyzstan, but they need support and the right direction,” says Hamza.
According to the Kyrgyz proverb “er tayyn tartat,” Hamza inherited his creative gift from his maternal uncle. “I am sure that my talent comes from my grandfather. He was a master who trained eagles, participated in horse races, and made leather products,” he recalls.
Gallery: Hamza Usokeev from the Jeti-Oguz district is reviving the Kyrgyz national craft.
To date, Usokeev has mastered various types of crafts and works with wood, stone, metal, and leather, but leather holds a special place in his heart. The prices for his products range from 4,000 to 200,000 soms. “My teacher always said that every material has its own language, and if you understand it, you can realize your ideas,” explains the master.
Creating each product brings Hamza true pleasure. “My teacher said that this work won’t make you rich, but it won’t leave you hungry either. If you are looking for wealth, it’s better to do something else. But manual labor fills the soul and brings inspiration. The happiest person is the one who is at peace in their soul,” he reflects.
Currently, Hamza creates numerous leather products—from saddles and belts to theatrical armor and wallets. He approaches each order with a unique perspective, not using others' ideas. “My first large order was for a leather backpack for a school in Russia when I was still studying. They found my work online and placed an order—this was my first international experience,” he recalls.
Last year, he also participated in making horse harnesses for the cavalry that welcomed Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during his visit to Kyrgyzstan.
Hamza is now creating large-format national compositions that reflect the culture and spirit of the Kyrgyz people. “I am often asked who I am. I reply: ‘I am an artist; I need inspiration.’ Everyone should find joy in their work,” he says.
Hamza's dream is to teach the youth the art of leatherworking and nurture future talented artists. Some of his students are already following in his footsteps and working independently. “Culture is not just a stage or books. It is the ideology and traditions of the people. Passing these values to the younger generation is our duty. I may not become a famous artist, but I want to guide talented youth so that among them will be those who will glorify Kyrgyzstan,” he notes.
He also hopes that Kyrgyz craftsmanship will gain global status. “In Kyrgyzstan, thousands of livestock are slaughtered every year, but their hides are often thrown away. We lack enough leather processing factories, and many masters buy leather from other countries. It would be wonderful if small leather processing factories opened in every region,” adds the master.
When asked about his fears, Hamza replies: “I fear that I won’t have enough time to realize all my ideas. But if I pass them on to the youth, and they continue, that will be my greatest happiness. We always strive to reflect the Kyrgyz spirit and cultural heritage in every work,” he says.
Hamza values the uniqueness of each creation. He actively participates in exhibitions and enjoys the process of working. The most important thing for him is to bring individuality into his products. “Then people will recognize your works, just like they recognize stars on stage,” he concludes.
