Description
Ylvia Asal honors her Anatolian heritage by creating “Oya,” traditional lace, helping to keep this centuries-old art form alive. Once used to trim headscarves, oya has long been a way for women throughout the wider Anatolian area to express themselves. Ylvia’s detailed lacemaking is a way for her to reclaim her cultural heritage. Her Haddonfield, New Jersey shop features both original and traditional creations, and she teaches workshops throughout the area. In 2024, Ylvia Asal received a New Jersey Heritage Fellowship from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts for her contribution to oya lacemaking.
Produced by Susan Wallner for State of the Arts. Director of Photography Joe Conlon, Assistant Camera Jack Stawowczyk. Narrated by Nemuna Ceesay.
