Summary of the Webinar: “The Role of Globalization in Rug Culture in Anatolia: A Case Study, Osmaniye Karatepe Rugs”
Date: 23 May 2024
Time: 15:00 (CEST)
Speaker: Dr. Gülsüm Şimşek
During this insightful webinar, Dr. Gülsüm Şimşek explored the evolution of Karatepe rugs within the context of globalization. The lecture emphasized the historical significance of these rugs as a form of expression for women and their current role as essential household items. Dr. Şimşek provided a detailed analysis of how tradition and modernity intersect in Anatolia’s rug-making industry.
Dr. Gülsüm Şimşek, an expert in public relations theories, also conducts research on the local press, globalization, and political communication. Her study aimed to determine the transformation of Karatepe rugs in Anatolia in terms of globalization. The research involved a comprehensive literature review and interviews conducted between 9-13 May 2016 with key individuals such as the President of the Karatepe Kilimleri Cooperative, Cengiz Cafri, sales consultant Ömer Tut, manager of the Osmaniye City Museum Ayşe Erat, women weavers from Karatepe, and Asst. Prof. Halil Özdemir from Osmaniye Korkut Ata University.
The findings from the interviews were categorized into seven areas: communication, economy, employment, technology, promotion, locality, and usage purpose. The data revealed that Karatepe rugs historically served as a symbolic communication tool for women to express their emotions and thoughts at a time when literacy rates were low. Over the years, these rugs have evolved from being symbolic ornaments to becoming essential sources of income for the women of Karatepe, meeting both decorative and practical household needs.
