Zhanyl Baisheva, UNESCO ICH / Kyrgyzstan 2024

The artisan center «Altyn Oimok» was founded in 1996 and is led by Kyrgyz woman Zhanyl Baisheva. She has been making handicrafts for over 28 years and used to employ more than 30 women in her workshop.

Zhanyl Baisheva is a world-renowned artisan: she has participated in international folk art events in the USA, Colombia, France, Sweden, China, India, Canada, and more. In 2012, Kyrgyz Shyrdak and Ala-kiyiz were included in UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, and Zhanyl received a quality certificate for these works of art.

Altyn Oimok is a true gallery-home, decorated in a national style with Tushkiiz adorning the walls of the house and its 11 guest rooms — large elaborately embroidered wall hangings traditionally made in Kyrgyzstan.