The winners of the IHIB carpet design competition announced.
The carpet industry gathered with the designers of the future at the 17th National Carpet Design Competition organized by the Istanbul Carpet Exporters’ Association (IHIB). During the event, which also recognized industry representatives contributing to Turkey’s carpet exports in 2023, Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM) Chairman Mustafa Gültepe remarked, “With $2.8 billion in exports, we have a significant presence in the global carpet market. We must enhance this success by integrating design and innovation into production.”
IHIB Chairman Ahmet Hayri Diler highlighted the global strength of Turkish carpet-making, stating, “Value-added exports are not only about economic achievements but also about bringing our cultural richness to the world through design and technology. The National Carpet Design Competition, now in its 17th year, is a prime example of this commitment. Our designs are not just products but guiding lights for the future of Turkish carpet-making.”
The winners of the 17th national carpet design competition
The first prize in the 17th National Carpet Design Competition went to İnan Burhanlı, with Esma Deniz taking second place and Yaren İleri securing third. Awards were also presented to 10 firms in the categories of Woven Machine-Made Carpets, Tufted Carpets, Velvet Carpets and Prayer Rugs, and Handmade Carpets. The IHIB Special Award was given to Mine Gökbuket Erbek, who dedicated her award to Turkish weaver women. The “Carpet Maker of the Year” Award went to Erhan Ör, a prominent figure in Hereke carpets.
The ceremony, hosted by IHIB Chairman Ahmet Hayri Diler, was attended by Istanbul Deputy Governor Cengiz Karabulut, TIM Chairman Mustafa Gültepe, Istanbul Textile and Raw Materials Exporters’ Association Chairman Ahmet Öksüz, Istanbul Leather and Leather Products Exporters’ Association Chairman Güven Karaca, Southeastern Anatolian Exporters Association Chairman Zeynel Abidin Kaplan, and many distinguished guests.
“Cultural Legacy Meets Innovation”
Speaking at the ceremony, Cengiz Karabulut emphasized the cultural significance of carpets, stating, “Each knot holds history, each pattern tells a story. This competition serves as a valuable platform that bridges tradition and innovation. These designs not only showcase the richness of our culture but also play a critical role in introducing it to the world. I believe that the works presented here today will be remembered as both designs and timeless pieces of art.”
“We Must Marry Production with Design”
Mustafa Gültepe underlined the unique place of carpets in Turkish culture, noting that among the world’s nations, Turks have one of the deepest understandings of carpet-making, with a history spanning 2,500 years. He added, “Turkey accounts for 16.4% of global carpet exports. Last year, we achieved $2.8 billion in carpet exports. For the January-November period this year, we recorded a 5% increase, and we expect to close 2024 with a similar growth rate. Carpets represent not only a 2,500-year cultural legacy but also one of our most advantageous industries globally. We must protect and advance this sector, blending production with design, innovation, and high technology to achieve even greater success.”
“Turkey Leads the World”
IHIB Chairman Ahmet Hayri Diler celebrated the fusion of the industry’s deep-rooted cultural heritage with its strong commercial potential, stating, “We take pride in bringing together the leading figures of our industry, Turkey’s talented designers, and the youth who will shape our future. The carpet sector is one of Turkey’s brightest success stories. Today, Turkey ranks second in global carpet exports overall and is the world leader in woven machine-made carpets. This success is built on the sector’s robust infrastructure, innovative vision, and dedication to preserving cultural values. Value-added exports are the key to not only economic achievements but also to sharing our cultural richness with the world through design and technology. Our designs are not merely products; they are guiding stars for the future of Turkish carpet-making. Turkish carpets are not just economic assets but also artistic elements deserving global recognition.”
