Draft:Tatar art

Tatar art, is art which emanated from the cultural traditions of the Volga Tatars and Crimean Tatars. The Tatar people predominantly reside in Russia's Republic of Tatarstan and other parts of the former Soviet Union. They have an expressive and varied form of artistic endeavor which encompasses visual arts, music, dance, crafts, and literature.

Categories of tatar art

- Visual Arts: Traditional Crafts: Tatars are renowned for their intricate embroidery, woodworking, and metalwork, which often feature detailed floral and geometric patterns, especially in their embroidered textiles.

- Painting and Sculpture: Contemporary Tatar artists blend traditional motifs with modern styles, to create unique works that reflect their cultural heritage and contemporary influences.

- Music: - Folk Music: The melodies and rhythms of Tatar folk music are distinctive, and often feature traditional instruments like the kubyz (jaw harp) and dumbyra (stringed instrument).

- Classical and Modern Music: Tatarstan have a dynamic music scene, with a deep tradition in classical music and an active contemporary music community, particularly in Kazan, the capital.

- Dance: Folk dance, ballet dance and modern dance: Tatar folk dances are energetic and expressive, characterized by intricate footwork and colorful costumes, typically performed at festivals and celebrations. The region also has a strong tradition in ballet and modern dance, supported by prestigious institutions like the Kazan State Ballet.

- Literature: Folk tales, Epics and modern literature: Tatar literature has a rich oral tradition, with folk tales and epic poems that have been handed down through generations. In contemporary times, Tatar writers explore themes of identity, history, and culture in both the Tatar and Russian languages.

- Architecture: - Historical and Religious Buildings: Tatar architecture is marked by significant historical and religious landmarks, such as the Qolşärif Mosque and the Söyembikä Tower in Kazan, which exhibit a blend of Islamic and regional styles.

Majority of Crimean Tatar art was lost as a result of the 1944 deportation of Crimean Tatars from their homeland, A rejuvenation of traditional art began during the post-Soviet era.

In modern times, contemporary indigenous artists began studying, modernizing and adapting the indigenous legacy art to modern times, The main material used is the ornek, a traditional Crimean Tatar ornament included on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage.

Historical origin

Crimean Tatar art has ancient roots and is a significant part of the cultural heritage of the Crimean Tatars and much of this art was lost following the 1944 deportation of Crimean Tatars.

During the Renaissance of art in the post-Soviet era, there was a revival of the Crimean Tatar art.

Attempts are being made to revive and modernize Crimean Tatar ornamental heritage. There are also attempts to integrate traditional designs into modern contexts.

6. **Contemporary Success**:

  - Crimean Tatar art is experiencing a resurgence, with increased interest and private orders for traditional crafts.
  - Artists are creating new art forms and techniques while maintaining self-sufficiency.

7. **Broader Cultural Impact**:

  - The revival includes not only visual arts but also architecture, music, theater, and literature.
  - The legacy of deportation still influences artistic expression, inspiring works that pay tribute to Crimean Tatar history.

Tatar art and culture have roots in the Volga Bulgaria, the Golden Horde, and the Kazan Khanate. The adoption of Islam in 922 influenced the development of another dimension to its art, replacing pre-Islamic motifs with Islamic ornamental designs. Significant architectural developments occurred during the Golden Horde and Kazan Khanate periods. Some architecture built during that period are The Kazan Kremlin, mosques, and mausoleums. After the Kazan Khanate joined the Russian state in the 16th century, Tatar cultural elements influenced Russian architecture and art, found in structures like St. Basil's Cathedral. Tatar decorative art flourished, producing ornate items such as the "Kazan cap" and "Monomakh's cap," now housed in the Moscow Armory Museum. The 19th century saw a rise in decorative art, including gold and tambour embroidery, jewelry, and national costumes.

Contemporary tatar art

New artists are modernizing and adapting traditional arts while preserving ancestral practices. Traditional Crimean Tatar ornament, ornek, is central to this revival and is recognized by UNESCO. There is an emphasis of the importance mixing historical customs and using traditional ornaments in contemporary art.

Despite past repressions and limited financial support, artists continue to find ways to thrive.