TEHRAN - Siahak-Duzi, a traditional form of needlework from Iran’s Semnan province, is a fine yet fragile expression of Iranian handicrafts and an important part of local clothing and cultural identity.

Today, however, the art is facing a worrying decline. With fewer master artisans, limited public attention and little interest from younger generations, Siahak-Duzi continues in near silence and is at risk of being forgotten.

Siahak-Duzi may resemble a quiet whisper of the artisan’s mind on the calm surface of white fabric. Dark thread moves across the cloth, guided by thought and imagination. With each stitch, an idea takes shape, leaving a trace of creativity on the fabric, as if the mind has no choice but to express itself through thread and needle.

Some believe that Siahak-Duzi tells a story of contrasts: light and dark, stillness and movement, simplicity and depth. As black thread passes again and again through the white cotton fabric, meaning is slowly created and patterns appear where nothing existed before. The pleasure of this art lies not only in the final design, but also in the slow and patient process of stitching itself.

In another word, Siahak-Duzi is a silent language of culture and history, which is more than simple embroidery. It reflects the identity of a community whose voice is now fading due to the lack of markets, the decline of traditional training, the distance of young people from these skills, and reduced production. As a result, this centuries-old art is in danger of disappearing.

With proper support and creative renewal, new life can be given to this traditional craft. Efforts by artisans and cultural activists to revive Siahak-Duzi have created fresh hope for its survival among today’s generation.

A living reflection of cultural identity

According to IRNA, handicrafts are a living reflection of a society’s cultural, historical and social identity. The wide range of traditional arts has been passed down through generations, shaped by experience, and expresses the creativity, taste and way of life of local communities.

Supporting handicrafts not only helps preserve cultural heritage, but also plays an important role in strengthening local economies, creating sustainable jobs and developing cultural tourism. Each handmade object tells a story of beliefs, climate and local skills. When such arts disappear, part of a society’s collective memory fades as well.

Decline of a centuries-old art

The disappearance of a traditional art means more than losing a single skill. When an art form is forgotten, a whole chain of knowledge, techniques and cultural values is lost with it.

Such a procedure weakens cultural identity and creates uniformity. At the same time, local artisans lose their source of income and are often forced to leave their profession or migrate. Over time, this leads to weaker local economies, reduced cultural diversity, and greater dependence on industrial and imported products.

Ways to revive

To revive traditional handicrafts, public awareness of their value must first be increased. Teaching handicrafts in schools and universities, documenting the knowledge of master artisans, and providing media support are all essential steps. Updating the use of handicrafts and combining them with modern daily needs can also help attract younger generations.

In addition, linking handicrafts with cultural tourism and using digital platforms can be effective tools for introducing, marketing and sustaining these valuable arts. Economic and institutional support for artisans through sales markets, exhibitions and financial assistance is also crucial.

AM