An exhibition titled "Esimde" is taking place in Bishkek, aimed at engaging different generations—from children to the elderly. A journalist from 24.kg attended the event to capture the atmosphere and artistic objects dedicated to the past.
On the first floor of the Vefa shopping center, three installations are presented that remind us of the importance of memory: "Memory is our roots, and roots are life."
The exhibition begins with a work by Saidrahman Sharipov titled "Root," which symbolizes identity and individuality. The artist uses embroidery to convey the spirit of his people. As explained in "Esimde," the base of the work is made from natural felt and yarn. This piece takes us back to the origins when our grandmothers and great-grandmothers created carpets and shyrdaks, reflecting Kyrgyz life and culture.
Embroidery with wool threads on felt is a traditional Kyrgyz craft. Each pattern and symbol tells a story about the rich heritage of the Kyrgyz people.
“Warm memories of childhood live in each of us—of embroidered woolen mats and patterned ornaments created by our mothers. The art of embroidery allows us to touch the past of the people, its cultural values, and dreams. In the patterns, we can see the traces of the hands of our wise mothers,” shares the author, as reported by "Esimde."
Right after "Root," there is a stand with photographs of ancestors. Visitors can scan a QR code and go to a special page of the "Esimde" project, where they can find their relatives by name or surname. The organizers have done a tremendous job to create such an extensive database.
The exhibition concludes with a work by Zarina Nazar titled "The Fabric That Remembers."
This unique installation consists of many pieces of fabric connected to each other, symbolizing a unified women's story. The author emphasizes that the diverse fabrics—bright, dark, smooth, floral, and polka-dotted—represent the women themselves, who, although different, are united as one.
Each piece of fabric is a life. Cut, experienced, but not thrown away. Sewn together with others not for beauty, but for understanding: that we are not alone. Each of us is part of the pattern, and only together do we gain strength, form, and voice.
“Esimde”
Many visitors to the shopping center pass by the exhibition, unaware of the significance of the works presented. Sometimes it is worth stopping, looking around, and realizing how the past continues to accompany us in our daily lives.
The "Esimde" exhibition will be open until November 17, and everyone is welcome to visit.
