Aziz Murtazaev-UZBEKISTAN

Aziz Murtazaev, an artist hailing from Uzbekistan, was born in 1981 in Margilan, situated in the renowned Fergana Valley—a hub of silk production and craftsmanship. Raised amidst the rich cultural tapestry of Central Asia during the Soviet era, Aziz's early exposure to his father's dyeing and paint production craft kindled his passion for color and design.

Following Uzbekistan's independence, Aziz pursued his education in languages and business management, laying the groundwork for his career in crafts and design. His journey led him to delve into the intricacies of ikat weaving, natural dyeing, and block printing, honing his skills and understanding of traditional techniques.

In 2016, Aziz founded Crafts Studio IkatUz—a cooperative of independent artists dedicated to preserving and innovating traditional craftsmanship. Through this initiative, he has revitalized traditional ikat motifs, employing natural dyes and collaborating with weavers and artisans to create exquisite textiles.

Aziz's dedication to his craft has earned him recognition on both local and international stages. His creations, dyed with natural and quality aniline dyes, have found resonance with customers across the globe, from the United States and Europe to Japan and India. As a National Entity Member of the World Crafts Council and President of its Asia Pacific Region, Aziz continues to champion the cause of traditional crafts, fostering collaborations and showcasing Uzbekistan's rich heritage on the global stage.

With each thread meticulously dyed and woven, Aziz Murtazaev weaves a story of cultural preservation, innovation, and sustainable craftsmanship—a testament to his unwavering commitment to the art form and its enduring legacy.

 @azizbek.murtazayev