As part of a Scientific Research Project (BAP) conducted by the Faculty of Architecture and Design at Istanbul Commerce University, an applied workshop was organized to support the preservation and sustainable transmission of the traditional Kabalar Basması printing technique unique to the district of Göynük. By bringing together cultural heritage, design, and production processes, the project aims to ensure that this valuable tradition continues to thrive in contemporary contexts.
The first practical activity of the project, titled “Design and Product Development Project for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Sustainability: Göynük Kabalar Basması” (Project No. SBG-2026-96), was held in Bolu as part of the 14th Cultural Heritage Events. Hosted at the historic Gülezler Mansion, the workshop entitled “Discovering Kabalar Basması” brought together participants from different age groups and backgrounds.
Organized with the support of the Bolu Folk Culture Research and Application Center (BAMER), the workshop provided participants with the opportunity to learn about and experience the traditional Kabalar Basması technique firsthand. The event created a valuable platform for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage while reinterpreting traditional knowledge through contemporary design approaches.
Beyond documenting cultural heritage, the project seeks to transfer traditional craftsmanship into modern design and product development processes. This approach contributes to the revitalization of traditional production knowledge through sustainable production models and innovative design practices.
During the workshop, participants engaged directly with the production process by using traditional wooden printing blocks and authentic motifs associated with Kabalar Basması. Through hands-on activities, they created their own prints and became active contributors to the preservation and continuation of this cultural tradition.
The event attracted students, parents, academics, and researchers, allowing cultural knowledge to be transferred through experience rather than solely through theoretical instruction. This experiential learning approach strengthened participants’ understanding of traditional production techniques and their cultural significance.
The project is led by Associate Professor Pınar Öztürk Demirtaş, Head of the Department of Industrial Design at the Faculty of Architecture and Design. The research team includes faculty members from the Department of Industrial Design and student researchers working collaboratively to document, digitize, and reinterpret the Kabalar Basması tradition through contemporary design methodologies.
Through its interdisciplinary structure, the project not only records traditional knowledge but also transforms it into a resource for future generations by integrating cultural heritage with modern design education and sustainable production practices.
As part of the workshop, the project team shared comprehensive information about the historical development and cultural significance of Kabalar Basması while also demonstrating traditional production techniques. Participants gained firsthand experience in producing prints using traditional motifs, illustrating how cultural heritage can be sustained not only through preservation but also through active production and creative engagement.
The workshop served as an important example of how traditional production knowledge can be integrated into contemporary design education. At the same time, it contributed to raising awareness of Göynük Kabalar Basması and highlighted the role of universities in safeguarding and promoting cultural heritage through research, education, and community engagement.
This initiative reflects Istanbul Commerce University’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage, fostering sustainability, and creating innovative connections between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design practice.
