Yangon: On a rainy Saturday in Yangon, the rhythmic click-clack of handlooms filled a traditional building, celebrating the living heritage of Myanmar's weaving art.
According to Namibia Press Agency, it was the opening of "The Sound of Weaving" festival, organized by Turquoise Mountain Myanmar, which brought the timeless art of traditional weaving to life through sound, color, and craft.
"The aim of the festival is to help the public understand and appreciate the art of traditional weaving," said Yar Khay Hla, Regional Coordinator of Turquoise Mountain Myanmar. She emphasized the importance of promoting and preserving this craft to ensure it does not fade away, especially as many young people are unaware of the effort involved in weaving.
She added that passing down this art to future generations is crucial for its survival and highlighted the potential for promoting sales to international markets. The festival focused on handloom weaving, particularly the traditional backstrap technique, where the entire fabric is crafted by hand.
An official from Turquoise Mountain Myanmar explained that this method often limits the fabric's width to the span of a woman's shoulders, reflecting the personal nature of the craft. For the weavers, this art form is more than just a livelihood; it is a source of peace and pride.
Chit May, a 50-year-old weaver, shared her experience of starting to weave at age 14. Despite the challenges of aging, weaving continues to bring her joy and provides a living. She has also passed this skill on to her daughter. Ma Thaung, who learned the craft at age 10, noted the benefits for housewives who can earn from home while caring for their children.
Ma Ba Hi, 43, described weaving as almost meditative, emphasizing the need for a peaceful heart to produce quality fabric. The art requires both heart and hand, and its practice does not depend on electricity.
Turquoise Mountain Myanmar supports traditional artisans through training programs and events. Since 2020, they have trained over 1,500 weavers across Myanmar, in regions including Rakhine, Chin, Southern Shan, Kayah, Yangon, and Mandalay.
Established in 2016, Turquoise Mountain Myanmar promotes traditional textile weaving, goldsmithing, and lacquerware. It also restores historic buildings and supports the sales of Myanmar crafts to international markets through exhibitions, partnerships, and commissions.
The two-day festival, which began on Saturday and concludes on Sunday, not only showcases remarkable craftsmanship but also underscores the significance of preserving these traditional arts for future generations.