UNESCO recognized
Who is Mehmet Girgiç and why to visit Felt Gallery
Born into a family of felt makers in Konya, Mehmet Girgiç is one of the last bearers of a centuries-old Anatolian tradition. From his grandfather he inherited not only the skills of the craft, but also the responsibility of keeping this cultural treasure alive. For more than 50 years, he has devoted his life to the art of felt.
The Art of Felt
In his workshop, the transformation of wool into felt follows an ancient rhythm: raw sheep’s wool is cleaned, laid layer by layer, soaked in hot water, then beaten and rolled until the fibers lock together. The result is a material that is both humble and extraordinary — warm in the cold, cool in the heat, strong, and timeless.
For centuries, felt has been used in Anatolia for shepherds’ cloaks, floor coverings, and the tall hats (sikke) worn by Mevlevi dervishes. In Mehmet Girgiç’s hands, these traditional forms are reborn with the same spirit.
trained dozens of apprentices, ensuring that the knowledge will not be loss
A Bridge Between Past and Future
While deeply rooted in tradition, Mehmet Girgiç also embraces innovation. His works travel far beyond Konya — from Oxford University workshops to international exhibitions in Europe, America, and Australia. He has trained dozens of apprentices, ensuring that the knowledge will not be lost.
