Help Me to Build Anatolian Cultures and Arts Center

I am a fine textile creator, folk artist, and teacher from Türkiye, dedicated to preserving and sharing Anatolian traditions. Since moving to the U.S. in 2003, I have worked to protect the cultural stories of my homeland, voices often assimilated or erased, believing that art fosters peace, diversity, and human connection. Through my work, I honor the past while creating new spaces for cultural exchange, ensuring that these traditions continue to inspire and unite people across backgrounds.

At the heart of this mission is Ylvia Asal Studio in downtown Haddonfield, NJ, a gallery, maker space, and cultural bridge where traditional and contemporary fiber arts thrive. It is a home for creativity, learning, and storytelling through stitches, where I teach, exhibit, and lead programs that celebrate Anatolian heritage and global folk traditions. From hands-on workshops to community engagement initiatives, my goal is to create an inclusive space where people can connect through the universal language of art.

My work is deeply rooted in Oya, the intricate lace tradition of Anatolia, a centuries-old handmade craft passed through generations. Each stitch is an act of remembrance, a tribute to ancestral knowledge, and an invitation to reimagine heritage in a modern context. Through my art, I celebrate the labor and artistry of women, revive forgotten techniques, and foster cross-cultural connections ensuring that the threads of the past continue to weave a meaningful future.

One day, I hope to establish a larger center for Anatolian arts, a dedicated space for preservation, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Like threads and needles working together, I believe we can stitch a future of deeper empathy, shared heritage, and lasting community bonds.

Come experience Anatolian cultures with me!