Our Mission
Anatolian Artisans is a non-profit organization that empowers low-income artisans of Turkey by celebrating the connection between culture and development.
We provide sustainable economic benefits to low-income artisans through product development, marketing and training. We also raise awareness about arts and culture of Turkey by organizing exhibitions, festivals, fairs, conferences and seminars. Organizing cultural tours to Turkey for US travelers is one of our main activities. Visiting artisan workshops provides an opportunity to tour members to interact with artisans and learn about their techniques and processes. Itineraries include visits to archeological sites, culinary experiences and art talks that gives a broader understanding of the arts and culture of Turkey.
“This is our only opportunity. When I work in the fields they treat us very badly, but here you are all very friendly and patient with us.”
“The new skills I learned will help me succeed. There is no other course I could take that provides training to older, low income, less educated women.”
“For some, it was their first trip to Turkey, others were old hands such as Peace Corps volunteers, and frequent tourists, or born in Turkey. Nevertheless all were linked by our incredible experience of visiting the Black Sea region together. ”