Dear Fellow Citizens and Esteemed Guests,
We are filled with excitement and pride to be with you at the 35th International Şile Fabric Festival. This festival exemplifies our commitment to preserving Şile’s renowned cultural heritage and promoting Şile Fabric on a global scale. We come together to celebrate and rediscover Şile Fabric, one of the finest examples of artisanal craftsmanship, and to showcase our historical and cultural richness from the past to the present. This year, we are delighted to host not only prominent artists from our country but also international guests in our district.
Şile Fabric is not merely a woven textile; it embodies a heritage that spans from the past to the present. Much like our agricultural traditions, meticulously preserved through methods dating back to the 1900s, Şile Fabric is engaged in a unique effort to maintain its authenticity and naturalness. The meticulous selection of cotton from the fields, its transformation into yarn on the loom, and its final form as clothing through the skilled hands of artisans represent a captivating journey from the roots of Şile Fabric. Having been honored with geographical indication certification, Şile Fabric is a cultural treasure deserving of global recognition for its naturalness, health benefits, and uniqueness.
The 35th International Şile Fabric Culture and Arts Festival presents an excellent opportunity to extend the universal value and beauty of Şile Fabric to broader audiences. Throughout the festival, visitors will be treated to an array of captivating events, live concerts, stunning exhibitions, and educational workshops. As visitors stroll through Şile’s historic streets, they will have the chance to closely examine the handcrafted works of Şile Fabric artisans.
This festival is not only a celebration but also aims to support the efforts of Şile Fabric producers, preserve our traditional arts for future generations, and contribute to our local economy. Şile Fabric represents a value that supports the economic independence of women and embraces environmentally friendly production methods through sustainable practices. We invite everyone to join us in preserving, celebrating, and embodying this unique heritage. It is with great pleasure that we welcome you, our valued neighbors and guests, to the 35th International Şile Fabric Culture and Arts Festival. Let us collectively sustain this valuable heritage that tells Şile’s story in every stitch and carries the traces of the past into the future.
With Warm Regards,
Özgür KABADAYI
Mayor of Şile