Kütahya-born artist keeps local costumes alive through rag dolls

Zekiye Eröz, an artist of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, is passing down the traditional clothing culture specific to the mountain villages of Kütahya's Tavşanlı, Domaniç, and Simav districts to future generations through the rag dolls she creates.

Carrying Cultural Heritage

Operating with the title of intangible cultural heritage bearer in Kütahya, Zekiye Eröz continues to keep the traditional clothing culture belonging to different regions of the city alive through rag dolls.

Promoting the distinctive attire of the mountain villages, particularly in the Tavşanlı, Domaniç, and Simav districts, the artist contributes to showcasing Kütahya's cultural riches.

Nature-Inspired Outfits

Stating that the lifestyle of the people living in Yörük and mountain villages intertwined with nature is directly reflected in their clothing, Eröz points out that the colors and fabrics used in the garments are chosen entirely from nature.

It is known that wool and cotton fabrics, which were indispensable parts of daily life in past periods, form the unique texture of local costumes.

Meticulous Examination of Details

Arguing that traditional clothing culture should not remain only in museums or old photographs, the artist examines the garments and recreates them on rag dolls.

Stating that each region harbors its own unique colors, decorations, and accessories, Eröz takes care to preserve details such as beads and feathers, especially in women's and bridal attire.

Changing Clothing Habits

Noting that the urbanization process and migration from villages to cities have transformed clothing habits, Eröz conveys that vibrant colors have over time given way to darker tones and a transition to synthetic garments has occurred.

In recent years, the renewed increase in societal awareness regarding natural products and cotton fabrics is evaluated as a promising development for the preservation of cultural values.