Kamila Erkaboyeva - Uzbek Cultural Lead

Kamila Erkaboyeva, who represents Uzbekistan, roots are from the Fergana Valley, a region known for its natural splendour and a large variety of folk crafts, including embroidery, silk weaving, ceramics, wood carving and jewellery design. Growing up, she inherited the fused cultures of her Uzbek father and Russian mother.

Uzbekistan is the most populous country of Central Asia and occupies a cultural intersection that has been thousands of years in the making. Its history is closely connected with the Silk Road that linked Asia to Europe and dominated the culture of the region. From this location at the intersection of rich trade, Uzbekistan absorbed influences from Persian, Greek, Turkic and Russian neighbours. Uzbek culture is characterised by a rich literary heritage, unique musical traditions and graceful dance styles. It is known for master craftsmen, particularly in the form of miniatures.

In London, Kamila studied Interior Architecture, but when personal adversaries struck, she drew strength from her culture and her passion for art. With her father’s encouragement, Kamila had learnt to express herself artistically from childhood. She founded her brand ‘Arty Numpty’, simple, elegant, yet quirky, with a clever and sophisticated use of colour. She often includes red - a colour that symbolises well-being in Uzbekistan and for themes she draws on both, her personal experiences and her heritage. Her art became a bridge between herself and her culture.

“A tree does not grow without its roots” - Kamila Erkaboyeva.