Suzani From Bukhara

Suzani From Bukhara lesson plan

Create a beautiful central Asian textile replica using the opulent colors of Crayola® Twistables Colored Pencils.

  • 1.

    The central Asian country of Uzbekistan is rich in culture and traditions. Find the area on a map. A center of Sunni Islam, some people in Uzbekistan trace their heritage back to the empire of Genghis Khan. Cotton, the country’s primary crop, is used to make textiles such as prayer rugs, curtains, clothing, and wall hangings (friezes).

  • 2.

    Decorative Suzani (su-za-NEE) friezes are embroidered with stitches in regional patterns that have been used for generations. They typically contain geometric or abstract images such as open flowers, circles, rosettes, leaves, and other natural subjects. The threads, made from silk, cotton, and now synthetic materials, may be dyed with vegetal ingredients such as pomegranate peel and walnuts. Find pictures of Uzbek textiles on the Internet or visit a store that carries items from central Asia.

  • 3.

    To make a replica Suzani, sketch abstract shapes and patterns with Crayola Twistables Colored Pencils on white paper. Think of interesting ways to arrange your designs.

  • 4.

    Draw your display Suzani on a recycled file folder. Fill in your patterns with the rich colors. Use hatched lines to simulate stitches.

  • 5.

    With your classmates, display your Suzanis around a map of the country with a brief description of Uzbekistan’s culture and history.

Benefits

  • Students locate the nation of Uzbekistan on a map.
  • Students gain a general overview of the country’s history and culture.
  • Students reproduce a Suzani in an authentic style of the region.

Adaptations

  • Do a textile survey in your home. Where are textiles used? How are they used? What kinds of fabrics can you identify?
  • If possible, bring a sample of a fabric item from another country to your classroom (ask your family first). Display these examples together to show the diversity of international textile arts.
  • On a large map, trace the routes along the Silk Road from Asia to Europe. Find out more about how and when the Silk Road was used. What is happening in areas along this route today?
  • Older students may compare textiles from other Islamic areas to find stylistic similarities and differences.
  • Assessment: Review the Suzani designs for authenticity in images and colors.