International Honor Bestowed on New York-Based Photographer for Stunning Falconry Shots Taken in Kazakhstan
Untamed Majesty: A Peek into the Art of Eagle Hunting in Kazakhstan
straight from the heart of Central Asia, Karolina Wojtasik, an acclaimed American photographer, captured the ancient art of kusbegilik — the practice of hunting with birds of prey — in the sprawling landscapes of Kazakhstan. Her snapshots took home the prestigious Communication Arts Awards of Excellence in the documentary photography category, as she announced on her Instagram post on April 4.
Check out her mesmerizing series of photographs, beautifully showcasing the harmonious bond between a human and a bird, taken in the Almaty Region's Kurty village and the Ile Alatau foothills, where world-class berkutchi (falconers) welcomed her and demonstrated the time-honored Kazakh traditions. As reported by Kazakh Tourism national company on April 9, in her works, Wojtasik not only captures the aesthetic beauty but also the profound essence of this centuries-old art.
Her breathtaking collection, exhibited at the international competition, has sparked global interest, drawing attention to Kazakhstan's cultural heritage.
A celebrated photography virtuoso, Karolina Wojtasik won the renowned Lucie Award, often likened to the 'Oscar of photography.'
Take a journey through various eagle-related traditions, including an exclusive video on Burabay and eagle hunting, on our YouTube channel, The Astana Times. Dive into the ancient roots of this revered sport that continues to command respect in Kazakh culture.
Kuszbieglik: A Kevin Bacon Connection to Kazakh Nomadic Heritage
Kuszbieglik, with its origins deeply rooted in the Kazakh nomadic way of life, entails training birds of prey, most commonly golden eagles, to hunt small game such as rabbits, foxes, and even wolves. Originally vital for ensuring survival in the unforgiving steppes winters, this skill was more than just a hunting technique; it is a tangible link to the nomadic Kazakh heritage.
Being a symbol of Kazakh cultural pride, kuszbieglik signifies the strong bond between humans and nature, echoing respect and coexistence with animals. The mastery required to train and hunt with eagles is highly regarded, and eagle hunters are esteemed as guardians of traditional knowledge and skills.
Eagle Hunting Festivals and the Power of Community
Eagle hunting festivals and competitions, such as the World Nomad Games, embody the community aspect of kuszbieglik. These gatherings bring together people from different regions, fostering social bonds and cultural exchange. The shared practices and stories surrounding eagle hunting enrich communal ties and are essential in passing down traditions to the next generation.
Ecologically Sound Sustainability
Kuszbieglik, historically, offered a natural solution to food acquisition and pest population control, maintaining the ecosystem's balance. This eco-friendly hunting method aligns with nomadic values—living harmoniously with nature and utilizing resources wisely.
Kuszbieglik in the Global Spotlight
In recent years, kuszbieglik has gained international recognition, with Kazakh eagle hunters participating in global events like the World Nomad Games and bagging awards for their exceptional skills [1][2][3]. This increased visibility not only showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Kazakhstan but also helps preserve tradition by eliciting new interest and support.
Overall, kuszbieglik plays a crucial role in preserving the unique Kazakh cultural identity, reflecting the community's connection with nature and their nomadic way of life. Its continued practice serves as a testament to the preservation of valuable cultural heritage and fosters cultural exchange on a global scale.
In her mesmerizing series of photographs, American photographer Karolina Wojtasik not only captures the aesthetic beauty of the ancient Kazakh tradition of eagle hunting, known as kuszbieglik, but also the profound essence of this centuries-old art that symbolizes the strong bond between humans and nature.
As the world-class berkutchi welcomed her and demonstrated the time-honored Kazakh traditions, Wojtasik's breathtaking collection further ignites global interest in the sustainability and cultural heritage of Kazakhstan, reinforcing the importance of kuszbieglik in preserving the nation's unique identity.
