INTERNATIONAL HANDICRAFTS PROJECT

DAY 1 – 15.06.2026 – VISITS – SKOPJE

The first day of the program was dedicated to institutional visits in Skopje. The delegation first visited the Faculty of Fine Arts of St. Cyril and Methodius University, where they were welcomed by Prof. Dr. Bedi İbrahim. Participants toured the workshops and educational facilities at the historic Suli An complex and received information about the faculty’s academic programs, traditional arts, and handicrafts education.

The delegation then visited the Esnaf Skopje Association and met with its president and board members. Discussions focused on the international handicrafts project, Ahi culture, artisan organizations, and future cooperation.

The next visit was to TimeBalkan, where the delegation met with Editor-in-Chief Seyyid Emin. Participants introduced the project and exchanged views on media, culture, and the promotion of cultural heritage.

The final visit took place at the Ensar Cultural, Solidarity and Education Association, where the delegation was welcomed by President Süleyman Baki. The meeting focused on the project’s objectives and future collaboration in the fields of culture and education.

The day concluded with a project meeting at the Bridge Association. Participants reviewed the activities carried out during the mobility and discussed the upcoming stages of the project.

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DAY 2 – 16.06.2026 – HANDICRAFT WORKSHOP – METAL TO RECYCLING

The second day of the project was dedicated to the “Metal to Recycling” workshop, led by Metal Sculpture Artist Ozbek Ayvaz. The workshop introduced participants to creative recycling techniques by transforming discarded materials such as wood, knives, spoons, and metal beverage cans into artistic sculptures.

At the beginning of the training, Ozbek Ayvaz explained the materials, tools, safety procedures, and production techniques used throughout the workshop. After selecting their reference character designs, participants wore protective equipment and began creating their sculptures under the instructor’s guidance. Throughout the workshop, they learned practical metalworking techniques while developing creative approaches to recycling and handicraft production.

By the end of the training, all participants successfully completed their miniature sculptures, demonstrating how recycled materials can be transformed into unique works of art through creativity and craftsmanship.

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DAY 3 – 17.06.2026 – EXHIBITION, CULTURAL VISITS AND PROJECT EVALUATION – SKOPJE

The third day of the program began with the opening of an exhibition at Skopje Bedesten, organized by the Bridge Association. The sculptures created during the “Metal to Recycling” workshop were displayed to art enthusiasts, local residents, and students attending the Bridge Summer School. Refreshments were served throughout the exhibition, and TRT Haber and TRT Avaz interviewed Project Coordinator Ahmed Cihad about the project activities.

Following the exhibition, participants visited Vodno Mountain and Matka Canyon. They observed panoramic views of Skopje from Vodno Mountain before continuing to Matka Canyon, where they enjoyed walking tours, boat trips, cave exploration, and canoeing while experiencing the region’s natural beauty.

The day concluded with a project evaluation meeting at the Bridge Association. Participants reviewed the activities carried out during the mobility and discussed preparations for the upcoming international photography competition and gala program. Dr. Vahit Sandal, Project Officer representing the Turkish National Agency, attended the meeting, provided guidance on the project implementation process, and answered participants' questions.

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DAY 1–3 – 15–17.06.2026 – HANDICRAFT DOCUMENTARY FILMING – NORTH MACEDONIA

Throughout the mobility in North Macedonia, filming continued for the international handicrafts documentary. Interviews and supporting footage were first recorded with Prof. Dr. Bedi İbrahim at the historic Suli An complex, focusing on traditional craftsmanship and arts education. Additional filming took place in the workshop of Metal Sculpture Artist Ozbek Ayvaz, where interviews were conducted about metal sculpture and recycling art. Detailed footage of the workshops, production process, surrounding environment, and drone images of both locations were captured for the documentary. Traditional gifts brought from Türkiye were presented to Prof. Dr. Bedi İbrahim and Ozbek Ayvaz in appreciation of their valuable contributions to the project and their support for preserving traditional handicrafts.