International Photography Award Obtained by New York Photographer for Documenting Falconry Scenes in Kazakhstan
A Fresh Take:
Soaring through Kazakh Cultural Heritage: The Art of Eagle Hunting
The bustling city of Astana played host to an extraordinary journey in February, as acclaimed American photographer Karolina Wojtasik immersed herself in the ancient art of eagle hunting, or kusbegilik. Her stunning photographs, captured in the Almaty Region, garnered worldwide attention and won the Communication Arts Awards of Excellence in documentary photography, as proudly shared on her Instagram post on the 4th of April.
Among the world champions of berkutchi, the skilled falconers whose lives are dedicated to the raising and hunting with birds, Wojtasik gained exclusive insights into the centuries-old traditions that define Kazakh culture. Her photographs, rich with the human-bird bond and the aesthetics of the art of hunting, tell a story that transcends beauty and delves into the heart of a deeply rooted heritage.
According to Kazakh Tourism national company, Wojtasik's photography series, displayed at the international competition, has been a powerful beacon, illuminating the cultural treasures of Kazakhstan for the global audience.
Known for her exceptional work and recipient of the prestigious Lucie Award, often equated to the 'Oscar' of the photography world, Wojtasik continues to captivate viewers with her intrepid spirit and keen lens.
Stepping even further into the world of eagle hunting, The Astana Times invites you to explore the various traditions associated with the magnificent eagles, including an intriguing video feature on Burabay and eagle hunting. Dive deeper into the lore of this ancient sport, and witness its enduring place in Kazakh culture here or through this accompanying article here.
Originating among the nomadic tribes of Central Asia, kusbegilik has been a lifeline for survival, providing sustenance during harsh winters, and a symbol of Kazakh resilience. Steeped in history dating back to the time of Genghis Khan, the practice carries immense cultural significance that radiate powerful symbols of freedom and strength, mirroring the Kazakh people's deep connection to nature.
Kusbegilik remains relevant today, playing a critical role in community bonding, fostering cultural exchange, and raising awareness for conservation efforts. With its global recognition and attractiveness for tourists keen on experiencing authentic Kazakh traditions, this ancient art continues to thrive in a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity.
- Karolina Wojtasik, the renowned photographer who captured the art of eagle hunting in Kazakhstan, garnered worldwide attention in April, when her astounding photographs were awarded the Communication Arts Awards of Excellence in documentary photography.
- The ancient art of kusbegilik, or eagle hunting, not only provides sustenance during harsh winters but also symbolizes Kazakh resilience and resonates with powerful symbols of freedom and strength.
- Among the skilled falconers, known as berkutchi, Wojtasik gained exclusive insights into the centuries-old traditions that form an integral part of Kazakh culture and lifestyle.
- The photographs, displaying the human-bird bond and the aesthetics of the art of hunting, offer a captivating glimpse into a deeply rooted heritage that has been transcending beauty since the time of Genghis Khan.
- With an increasing number of tourists seeking authentic Kazakh experiences, kusbegilik continues to thrive in a striking balance of tradition and modernity, fostering cultural exchange and raising awareness for conservation efforts.
