The Ceramic Decorative Art of Lebap and Its Masters

Pottery is one of the ancient forms of our national craftsmanship. In the past, ceramic vessels played a significant role in the everyday life of our people and were used for various purposes. Today, these pottery items continue to hold value as both decorative ceramic products and an inseparable part of our cultural heritage. Ruslan Rejepov, a resident of the city of Türkmenabat, has been engaged in this craft since 2013, creating modern-style ceramic pieces.

— The beauty and uniqueness of ceramic pottery reflect the lifestyle of our people. Since childhood, I was fond of drawing, often taking pencil and paper in hand. While in school, I attended art clubs where I sketched pots, sculptures, buildings, and fruits. Later, I began shaping those drawings out of clay. The dreams born in my childhood led me to this craft, — shares Ruslan aga.

Today, he is a well-known figure throughout our region. The potter contributes significantly to the ceramic decorative work on buildings across Lebap’s districts and cities. Along with this, he has created various ceramic decorations. His works such as "Caravan", "Jykyr", "Waterfall", "Teapot", "Horseman", "Begul", and "Magtymguly — the tongue that speaks for Turkmens” have been displayed at regional and national exhibitions, drawing great interest from art lovers. When you observe the carefully crafted figures of swans, ducks, camels, and cups of various sizes, you clearly see his talent and craftsmanship. Recently, Ruslan aga also participated in a cultural exhibition organized within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, held in the Avaza National Tourism Zone, showcasing his latest artworks.

— The world of creativity becomes more captivating when it is diverse. First, a prototype image of the item to be made forms in the imagination. My family, especially my wife Manzura, provides close support in creating the initial designs of future works. There’s a saying among our people: “If the apprentice doesn’t surpass the master, the craft will be lost.” I’ve taught my son Ylham the delicate secrets of this ancient pottery tradition. He is currently a student at the State Academy of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan, majoring in sculpture, and is being trained by master sculptor Saragt Babayev. My students, Yslam Rejepov, Wepa Rozyyev, and others are also eager to learn the finer aspects of pottery. Thanks to the tireless efforts of our Hero Arkadag and Hero Serdar Arkadagly, the master-apprentice tradition is now thriving in our country. This provides great motivation for young people to improve their skills, — says Ruslan aga.

In pottery, choosing the right raw material is one of the key tasks. The master potter emphasizes that he sources his clay from the banks of the Amu Darya River. According to him, the red clay taken from the lower layers of the soil is the most suitable for pottery making. Products made from this clay are of particularly high quality.

— A purposeful path leads to one’s goal. Pottery has fully captivated me. I will continue to reflect the artistic spirit of our era through my creations. Artistic works help us express emotions and beautify the world. May our Hero Arkadag and Hero Serdar Arkadagly always be healthy and safe, and may all their noble efforts be crowned with success! — Ruslan aga shared his heartfelt wishes.